Rajasthan High Court Grants Ayurvedic Treatment Permission to Rape Convict Asaram Bapu

The Rajasthan High Court has granted permission to self-styled godman and rape convict Asaram Bapu to undergo ayurvedic treatment at a facility in Jodhpur while remaining under police custody. Asaram Bapu, presently serving life sentences in two separate rape cases, sought permission to avail treatment due to his deteriorating health condition.

A bench comprising Justices Dinesh Mehta and Vinit Kumar Mathur permitted Asaram to stay at the Arogayadham Center in Jodhpur for ten days from the date of his admission to undergo the ayurvedic treatment. The Court emphasized that the right to appropriate treatment is a fundamental right and needs to be protected, considering Asaram’s age and health condition.

Initially, concerns were raised about admitting Asaram to an ayurvedic facility due to his cardiac ailments. However, the Arogayadham Center later assured that it could cater to Asaram’s cardiac condition if needed, and doctors from a hospital in Raigad could also provide medical assistance.

The Court directed the Commissioner of Police or his nominated officer to assess the security situation at the Arogayadham Center before Asaram’s treatment commences. The costs incurred for security personnel during Asaram’s treatment will be borne by him or his representative.

Asaram, who has been in prison since 2013, was convicted in 2018 under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act and in January 2023 for the rape of a devotee. Both life sentences are running concurrently.

The plea for ayurvedic treatment was moved after the Supreme Court declined to suspend Asaram’s jail sentence in the 2013 rape case and suggested seeking treatment at an ayurvedic hospital through the Rajasthan High Court.

The matter is scheduled to be taken up next on April 9. Asaram Bapu was represented by a team of senior advocates and the State of Rajasthan was represented by its Additional Advocate General.

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