The Supreme Court on Thursday (6 August) declined to grant interim bail to self-styled godman Asaram in his appeal against conviction, holding that the medical material placed before it did not justify such relief at this stage. However, taking note of a medical report submitted by the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), the Court allowed him to engage a trained caregiver of his choice on a round-the-clock basis while in custody.
Background of the Case
Asaram has challenged the Rajasthan High Court's decision affirming his conviction in a 2013 sexual assault case involving a minor. Seeking interim bail, he told the Supreme Court that he was suffering from serious health complications requiring urgent medical attention.
Earlier, the Court had directed AIIMS to conduct a comprehensive medical examination to assess his condition before deciding the request for interim relief.
Court Observation
A Bench of Justice M.M. Sundresh and Justice P.B. Varale considered the AIIMS report, which stated that hospitalisation was not presently required but that continuous assistance from a trained caregiver would be beneficial.
Recording the report, the Bench observed,
"The petitioner will have liberty to have assistance of a trained care taker of his choice, on a round-the-clock basis."
During the hearing, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta informed the Court that Asaram had obtained parole from the Rajasthan High Court while the present proceedings were pending. The Bench also noted the submissions made on this aspect before passing its order.
The Court further clarified that if his medical condition worsens in the future, he would be free to mention the matter again before the Court for appropriate consideration.
Decision
Without suspending the sentence or granting interim bail, the Supreme Court adjourned the application and permitted Asaram to avail the services of a trained caregiver of his choice on a 24-hour basis, in line with the AIIMS medical opinion.
The plea for interim bail remains pending.
Case Details
- Case Title: Asha Ram @ Ashumal v. State of Rajasthan
- Case Number: SLP (Crl.) No. 11761 of 2026
- Judge: Justice M.M. Sundresh and Justice P.B. Varale
- Decision Date: August 6, 2026
