PTC Web Desk: The Supreme Court on Thursday declined to grant interim bail to self-styled godman Asaram, who is serving a life sentence in the 2013 minor sexual assault case. However, the court permitted him to appoint a trained caregiver of his choice to provide round-the-clock assistance for his medical needs.

Bail plea kept pending

A Bench comprising Justices MM Sundresh and PB Varale heard Asaram's plea seeking interim bail on medical grounds. While refusing immediate relief, the Bench kept the application pending and observed that he could approach the court again if his health condition worsens.

The court's order means that Asaram will continue to remain in custody for now, although he has been granted permission to have a trained caregiver available 24 hours a day.

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During the proceedings, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta argued that Asaram had not disclosed to the Supreme Court that his counsel had already filed a parole application before the authorities.

Responding to the submission, Asaram's lawyer stated that the parole request had been filed much earlier and was not based on his present medical condition.

Rajasthan HC had granted parole

Earlier, the Rajasthan High Court had granted Asaram 20 days of parole, observing that the Rajasthan Government had failed to justify its decision to reject his parole request.

The High Court also took into account that the 85-year-old has been lodged in Jodhpur Central Jail for several years and noted his conduct during previous periods of temporary release while granting the relief.

AIIMS report on health condition

The Supreme Court had earlier been informed that a panel of doctors from AIIMS did not recommend hospitalisation for Asaram. However, the medical experts advised that he requires continuous medical supervision and assistance throughout the day. On July 21, the apex court had directed AIIMS to constitute a medical board to assess his health and submit its findings.

Conviction remains in force

On May 27, the Rajasthan High Court upheld Asaram's conviction and life sentence in the 2013 case involving the sexual assault of a minor.

Subsequently, on June 30, the Supreme Court sought a response from the Rajasthan Government after Asaram challenged the High Court's judgment.

The matter remains pending before the apex court, which will continue hearing the case in due course.

- With inputs from agencies

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