The Supreme Court on Thursday declined to grant interim medical bail to self-styled godman Asaram Bapu, who is serving a sentence after his conviction for the sexual assault of a minor devotee in Jodhpur in 2013.

A Bench of Justices M.M. Sundresh and P.B. Varale considered a medical report submitted by AIIMS regarding Asaram’s health condition. Taking note of the report, the Court recorded the statement of Solicitor General Tushar Mehta that the recommendations contained in the AIIMS communication would be implemented in letter and spirit by the authorities.

In view of the assurance, the Court permitted Asaram to have the assistance of a trained caretaker of his choice on a round-the-clock basis while he remains in custody.

Also Read: Supreme Court Seeks AIIMS Medical Report on Asaram’s Health Before Deciding Interim Bail Plea

During the hearing, the Solicitor General submitted that after approaching the Supreme Court, Asaram had also sought parole before the Rajasthan High Court and had been granted 20 days’ parole. It was contended that this development had not been disclosed before the Supreme Court.

Counsel appearing for Asaram disputed the submission, arguing that the parole application had been filed earlier and that the parole was not granted on medical grounds. The Bench, however, indicated that the record did not support that contention.

Declining to grant interim medical bail, the Court observed that the State would comply with the AIIMS recommendations regarding Asaram’s medical care. The Bench adjourned the interim application, granting liberty to Asaram to mention the matter again if there is any deterioration in his health.