Shahjahanpur Police Boost Protection Amid Safety Concerns
Shahjahanpur (Uttar Pradesh), April 1 — Authorities in Shahjahanpur have heightened security measures for the family of the rape survivor following the Supreme Court's decision to grant three months of interim bail to self-styled godman Asaram Bapu.The family, fearing for their safety, has been placed under strict police watch. They are now required to inform law enforcement before travelling outside the district, according to Shahjahanpur Superintendent of Police Rajesh Dwivedi.
Convicted Godman Gets Temporary Relief
Asaram Bapu, 86, who is currently serving a life sentence in Jodhpur Central Jail, was convicted under the POCSO Act in 2018 after a 16-year-old girl from Shahjahanpur accused him of sexual assault in 2013 at his Jodhpur ashram. He received a second life sentence in Gujarat in 2023 for another case.The court granted him interim bail on medical grounds citing heart ailments and age-related complications. His latest bail extension adds another three months to his temporary release, following earlier bail periods of seven days, twelve days, and two-and-a-half months.
High Alert Around Victim's Residence
In response to the bail, police have taken suo motu cognisance and ramped up security at the survivor’s residence:- A permanent guard is stationed at the house.
- The survivor's father and brother have been provided with personal security officers.
- Surveillance cameras have been installed, and long-range cameras are being added for wider coverage.
- Police are monitoring main and connecting roads near the house.
- Unauthorized gatherings near the residence have been strictly banned.
"We Stand With the Victim's Family": SP Dwivedi
SP Dwivedi emphasized the police department’s support:Additionally, the Kotwali police station has been directed to ensure that any travel by the survivor’s family outside Shahjahanpur is pre-reported so local police in the destination area can be alerted.“Our officers are reviewing security arrangements at the victim's residence both during the day and at night. We stand with the victim's family.”
Family Alleges Influence Despite Imprisonment
The rape survivor’s father expressed dismay over Asaram’s recurring bail:He also alleged that Asaram, despite being out on medical grounds, has been travelling across cities such as Indore, Ujjain, Surat, and meeting followers, contrary to the intent of bail.“When Bapu was in jail, it was our victory. But now he is managing everything. I’m surprised the court keeps granting interim bail — first for seven days, then 12 days, then two-and-a-half months, and now three months.”
Supporters of Asaram, the father said, had claimed he would not return to jail, and their statements now seem to be coming true.
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