Asaram faces fresh FIR for failing to surrender after parole expiry

Jaipur: Self-styled godman Asaram faces a fresh legal case after prison authorities reported that he failed to surrender within the prescribed period following the end of his 20-day parole.

The FIR was registered at Jodhpur’s Ratanada police station under Section 58(B) of the Rajasthan Prisons Act, based on a written complaint filed by prison guard Banwarilal. The provision carries a possible additional jail term of up to three years and a fine of up to Rs 3,000.

Asaram was brought from Indore to Jodhpur Central Jail in an air ambulance late on Tuesday. He reached the facility at around 11 p.m., but officials reportedly refused to admit him because prison rules require prisoner admissions to be completed before sunset.

He subsequently left the premises in the ambulance as a large number of supporters gathered outside the jail. Police personnel were deployed in the area to maintain law and order.

The case concerns the alleged failure to complete surrender formalities within the stipulated time after his parole expired. The fresh proceedings could have a bearing on future requests for legal relief, including parole or bail, subject to applicable law and judicial decisions.

Asaram is serving a life sentence in a case involving the rape of a minor student at a gurukul. Police and prison authorities have initiated action over the alleged delay in surrendering.

With IANS inputs