Asaram Bapu, the self-styled godman, has been sentenced to life imprisonment. He was convicted of sexually assaulting a 16-year-old girl in 2013. The verdict was announced by a court in Jodhpur, Rajasthan, on April 25, 2018. Asaram Bapu, who has a large following, has been accused of various crimes including sexual assault and murder. The life sentence handed down to Asaram Bapu has been widely welcomed, with many hoping that it will serve as a deterrent to other spiritual leaders who abuse their position of power.
Asaram Bapu has been in jail since September 2013, when he was arrested following the sexual assault allegations. The case against him was a complicated one, with numerous witnesses turning hostile, and the prosecution facing many obstacles. Despite these challenges, the prosecution was able to present a strong case, leading to Asaram Bapu's conviction and life imprisonment.
The victim, who was a minor at the time of the assault, has spoken out about the trauma she has faced since the attack. She has called for the harshest punishment possible for Asaram Bapu, and many others have echoed her sentiment. The victim and her family have faced numerous threats and intimidation since the attack, and they have been given round-the-clock protection by the Indian authorities.
Asaram Bapu's life sentence is being seen as a victory for the Indian justice system, and for the many victims of sexual assault who have had the courage to speak out. It is hoped that the conviction will encourage other victims to come forward and report similar crimes, and that it will send a strong message to those who abuse their power that they will be held accountable for their actions.