New Delhi : The Supreme Court of India has once again rejected self-styled godman Asaram Bapu's petition for bail. The decision, delivered by a bench headed by Justice Sanjiv Khanna, advised Asaram to approach the Rajasthan High Court for suspension of his sentence if the trial court doesn't hear his appeal expeditiously.
A History of Rejected Pleas:
This latest rejection marks yet another setback for Asaram, who has been in jail for nearly a decade and has seen his bail applications denied over a dozen times. Asaram was arrested in 2013 on charges of sexual harassment, with a formal case of sexual abuse being registered against him at his Jodhpur ashram later that year. Additionally, two sisters from Surat accused him of rape in the ashram in 2001.
Focus on Expediting Appeal:
While denying bail, the Supreme Court urged the Rajasthan High Court to prioritize hearing Asaram's appeal against his sentence. This move suggests the court's desire for a swift resolution to the case, ensuring a balance between due process and the concerns raised by the petitioner.
The decision comes as Asaram continues to serve his life sentence for the 2013 Jodhpur case. With the Supreme Court directing him towards the High Court, his path to securing bail remains uncertain, pending a thorough review of his appeal.
