SC rejects Asaram’s bail plea

Key witnesses are yet to be examined, says Bench

Asaram Bapu

The Supreme Court on Tuesday said it could not grant bail to self-styled godman Asaram Bapu on health grounds in the Jodhpur rape case as there seemed to be no urgency and critical witnesses were yet to be examined.

A Bench led by Justice T.S. Thakur, after examining a report of a medical board at Jodhpur, said he was under medication for the last 15 months and would continue to get treatment.

Witnesses to be heard

It said 76-year-old Asaram’s bail application would be considered once the five key witnesses, including the immediate family of the victim, were examined.

It asked the Rajasthan government to place the names of the witnesses at the next hearing on October 14.