The Gujarat High Court on Wednesday briefly heard a plea filed by self-styled godman Asaram Bapu, who is currently serving a sentence in connection with sexual assault cases, seeking an extension of his temporary bail. The matter came up before a division bench of Justice Ilesh J. Vora and Justice P. M. Raval in Ahmedabad.
Background
Asaram, whose full name is Ashumal @ Asharam Harpalani, has been in jail after his conviction in multiple sexual assault cases. Over the past years, he has repeatedly sought medical bail or extensions citing health complications. Earlier, the court had granted him temporary bail for limited durations. His legal team has now pressed for further extension.
On Wednesday, the petition was moved through his counsel, Mr. Ashish M. Dagli, while the State was represented by the Public Prosecutor.
The hearing was notably brief. Counsel for the petitioner, Mr. Dharmendrakumar Mishra, requested the bench to adjourn the matter. The judges accepted the request without delving into the merits of the bail extension plea at this stage.
The bench observed, "At the request of learned counsel, the matter shall be listed on 22.09.2025," the order recorded.
No further discussion on medical reports or grounds for bail took place during the session.
Accordingly, the division bench of Justice Vora and Justice Raval ordered that the plea for extension of temporary bail filed by Asaram be listed for further hearing on September 22, 2025.
Case Title: Ashumal @ Asharam S/o Thaumal Sindhi (Harpalani) vs. State of Gujarat & Anr.