A controversy broke out at Surat Civil Hospital after followers of Asaram Bapu, a self-proclaimed spiritual leader currently serving life sentences in two rape cases, conducted aarti and pooja on the hospital premises using his photograph.
Asaram Bapu has been convicted in two separate rape cases — the first in Jodhpur, Rajasthan, and another involving a disciple at his ashram in Ahmedabad. His convictions include serious charges such as rape (Section 376 2(C)), unnatural offences (Section 377), wrongful confinement (Section 342), and assault with intent to outrage a woman’s modesty (Section 354), among others.
Hospital officials clarified that the group had only been given permission to distribute fruits to patients and not for holding any religious rituals.
“We acted immediately once we became aware of the situation. The religious activity was halted, and the distribution of any printed material was also stopped. We strongly condemn this incident,” Dr. Ketan Nayak, the hospital’s resident medical officer, was quoted in a national daily.
It is said that a few hospital staff members may have taken part in the ritual, raising further concerns. However, there is no confirmation.
Despite his criminal convictions, Asaram Bapu continues to enjoy a loyal following. In August when he was brought to Ahmedabad Civil Hospital for medical tests following the orders of Rajasthan High Court, his followers indulged in an altercation with media persons.
The 84-year-old Godman has always remained controversial. He has a sprawling Ashram on the banks of river Sabarmati in Ahmedabad. It all began when he converted a hut into a small Ashram in 1973. There after, year on year, his followers increased.
His son, Narayan Sai, is also serving life sentence in connection with a rape case.
In 2008, Asaram Bapu was also involved in the controversy of the death of two young boys, brothers, who stayed in his Ashram. However, all the probes had exonerated Asaram Bapu from charges.
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