Gujarat HC Rejects Asaram's Bail Request to Visit Sick Wife, Permits Video Call

The Gujarat High Court rejected a bail petition filed by Asaram Bapu, the convicted preacher, seeking permission to visit his ailing wife in the hospital. The court held that Asaram could not be allowed to leave the jail premises for the visit. In lieu of a physical meeting, the court permitted the former preacher to communicate with his wife via a video call.

Asaram, who has been serving a life sentence for rape and murder, had requested temporary bail to attend to his wife's health. The court’s decision was based on concerns over security and the risk of potential unrest. The video call provision was seen as a compromise to allow the prisoner to maintain contact with his family while keeping him confined.

The ruling comes amid ongoing scrutiny of Asaram’s case and the broader debate over the rights of incarcerated individuals to maintain family ties. The Gujarat High Court’s order is expected to be appealed by Asaram’s legal team, who argue that the decision violates his constitutional rights.