The Supreme Court on Tuesday (January 7) granted interim bail to self-styled godman Asaram Bapu, allowing him temporary freedom until March 31, 2025.

Asaram, who is serving a life sentence following his conviction in a Gujarat rape case, was granted relief by a bench comprising Justices M.M. Sundresh and Rajesh Bindal.

However, the court imposed strict conditions, barring him from meeting his followers during the interim bail period, Live Law reported.

Asaram's advocate, Devadatt Kamat, argued for bail citing his advanced age, a history of heart attacks, and ongoing medical issues. Kamat also questioned the reliability of the conviction, asserting that it was based solely on the testimony of the survivor without corroborating evidence and highlighted inconsistencies in the prosecution's case.

The bench, however, refrained from examining the merits of the conviction.

Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing the State of Gujarat, opposed the plea.

The court's decision aligns with its earlier observation in October 2023 that prisoners who are sick or infirm may be considered for bail, irrespective of the stringency of the laws under which they are held.