Gujarat High Court Issues Notice To Asaram's Wife, Daughter On State's Appeal Against Acquittal In 2013 Rape Case

The Gujarat High Court has issued notice to Asaram Bapu's wife, daughter, and three women disciples on State's appeal against their acquittal in a 2013 rape case. They were acquitted earlier due to insufficient evidence, while the self-styled godman himself was sentenced to life imprisonment.

A division bench comprising Justices AY Kogje and Hasmukh Suthar issued notices returnable on 02.08.2023, to the five respondents who were accused of aiding and abetting the crime.

Among the accused are Asaram's wife, Laxmiben; their daughter Bhartiben; and three disciples - Dhruv Belani, Nirmalaben Lalwani (alias Dhel), and Miraben Kalvani (alias Baglo).

The court also admitted the government's application seeking condonation of a 29-day delay in the appeal.

A court in Gandhinagar had sentenced Asaram Bapu, also known as Asumal Sirumalani Harpalani, to life imprisonment on January 31. The ex-disciple, a Surat-based woman, had accused Asaram of repeatedly raping her between 2001 and 2007 while she resided at his ashram in Motera, Ahmedabad.

The 81-year-old self-proclaimed godman was found guilty of rape, criminal intimidation, and wrongful confinement by Gandhinagar's Sessions Court.

Case Title: State Of Gujarat Versus Bhartiben D/O Ashumal @ Asharam Sindhi (Harpalani) Criminal Misc. Application (For Condonation Of Delay) No. 1 Of 2023

Appearance: Mr. Hardik Soni, App, For The Petitioner(S) No. 1

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