SC denies bail to Asaram, orders new FIR for filing fake health documents

New Delhi: In another blow to self-styled godman Asaram, the Supreme Court on Monday dismissed his bail application in connection with two rape cases. The bail plea was sought on medical grounds.

While refusing to modify its earlier order that denied bail to Asaram, an apex court bench headed by Chief Justice of India Jagdish Singh Khehar remained resolute on its decision.

The Supreme Court also ordered registration of a new FIR against Asaram for filing fake documents in connection with his health. It levied a fine of Rs 1 lakh on him.

The apex court also dismissed regular bail plea of Asaram in sexual assault case lodged in Rajasthan. “We can't overlook that trial was unnecessarily prolonged & there were attacks on prosecution witnesses, two of whom have died,” the SC said.

The Jodhpur Police arrested Asaram on August 3, 2013 and since then he is in prison.

A teenager had accused Asaram of sexually assaulting her during celebration in a village near Jodhpur ashram.

The Gujarat Government had earlier told the top court division bench that the rape case registered against Asaram would very likely proceed in an expeditious manner, adding that the trial would be completed within six months so the bail should not be granted to him in the case.

The apex court had in October last year sought the Centre's response and five states on a plea seeking a Central Bureau of Investigation ( CBI) probe into the alleged murder of children through black magic and attacks on ten witnesses in Asaram's rape cases.