Asaram: Difference between revisions
Sydlucky26 (talk | contribs) Removed false biography that asaram used to ride tange. These are media reports without proof |
Sydlucky26 (talk | contribs) Replaced Asaram with Asaram Bapu |
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| parents = Mehangiba (Mother)<br>Thaumal Sirumalani (Father) |
| parents = Mehangiba (Mother)<br>Thaumal Sirumalani (Father) |
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| website = [http://www.ashram.org/ www.ashram.org]}} |
| website = [http://www.ashram.org/ www.ashram.org]}} |
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'''Asumal Sirumalani''' (born 17 April 1941) known as '''Asaram''' and '''Asaram Bapu''' ("Father") by his followers, is a Hindu religious leader from India. In early 1970s, Asaram built his first [[ashram]] on 4 ha (10 acres) of land in [[Gujarat]]. By 2013, he had 400 major and minor ashrams in India and abroad, with numerous followers. In 2000s, several cases of land encroachment were lodged against his ashrams in multiple states. In 2008, the death of two boys at his [[Motera]] ashram led to public protests, amid allegations that [[black magic]] was being practiced at the ashram. In 2013, Asaram was arrested when a 16-year-old girl accused him of sexually assaulting her in Jodhpur. He is currently in jail. |
'''Asumal Sirumalani''' (born 17 April 1941) known as '''Asaram Bapu''' and '''Asaram Bapu Bapu''' ("Father") by his followers, is a Hindu religious leader from India. In early 1970s, Asaram Bapu built his first [[ashram]] on 4 ha (10 acres) of land in [[Gujarat]]. By 2013, he had 400 major and minor ashrams in India and abroad, with numerous followers. In 2000s, several cases of land encroachment were lodged against his ashrams in multiple states. In 2008, the death of two boys at his [[Motera]] ashram led to public protests, amid allegations that [[black magic]] was being practiced at the ashram. In 2013, Asaram Bapu was arrested when a 16-year-old girl accused him of sexually assaulting her in Jodhpur. He is currently in jail. |
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== Early life == |
== Early life == |
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Asaram was born on 17 April 1941,<ref name="Daily Bhaskar 22 Aug 2013">{{cite news|title=Coal-seller Harpalani turned Asaram ‘bapu’ faces new allegations|url=http://daily.bhaskar.com/article/GUJ-AHD-coal-seller-harpalani-turned-asaram-bapu-faces-new-allegations-4354473-NOR.html|accessdate=29 August 2013|newspaper=Daily Bhaskar|date=22 August 2013|archiveurl=http://www.webcitation.org/6JEahiv09|archivedate=22 August 2013}}</ref> in the Berani village of the [[Nawabshah District]] in [[British India]] (present-day Pakistan), to Menhgiba and Thaumal Sirumalani.<ref>{{cite news|title=Asaram worked at a tea stall before he became a 'godman'|url=http://ibnlive.in.com/news/asaram-worked-at-a-tea-stall-before-he-became-a-godman/418345-3-239.html|accessdate=2 September 2013|newspaper=IBNLive|date=30 August 2013}}</ref> His birthname was Asumal Thaumal Harpalani<ref name="HT_clear_2013">{{cite news|title=Controversial godman: Can Asaram come clean on the rape allegations?|url=http://www.hindustantimes.com/India-news/Ahmedabad/Controversial-godman-Can-Asaram-come-clean-on-the-rape-allegations/Article1-1114370.aspx|newspaper=Hindustan Times|date=29 August 2013|accessdate=2 September 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|title=The Politics of Sex|url=http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/asaram-bapu-sexual-assault-politicians-protect-controversial-godman/1/304598.html|newspaper=India Today|date=30 August 2013}}</ref> or Asumal Sirumalani.<ref name=OneIndia>{{cite news|url=http://news.oneindia.in/2013/08/29/asaram-bapus-life-journey-from-a-tea-seller-to-the-spiritual-guru-1294490.html |title=Asaram Bapu's life journey from a tea seller to the spiritual guru |accessdate=1 September 2013|author=Preeti Panwar}}</ref> |
Asaram Bapu was born on 17 April 1941,<ref name="Daily Bhaskar 22 Aug 2013">{{cite news|title=Coal-seller Harpalani turned Asaram ‘bapu’ faces new allegations|url=http://daily.bhaskar.com/article/GUJ-AHD-coal-seller-harpalani-turned-asaram-bapu-faces-new-allegations-4354473-NOR.html|accessdate=29 August 2013|newspaper=Daily Bhaskar|date=22 August 2013|archiveurl=http://www.webcitation.org/6JEahiv09|archivedate=22 August 2013}}</ref> in the Berani village of the [[Nawabshah District]] in [[British India]] (present-day Pakistan), to Menhgiba and Thaumal Sirumalani.<ref>{{cite news|title=Asaram worked at a tea stall before he became a 'godman'|url=http://ibnlive.in.com/news/asaram-worked-at-a-tea-stall-before-he-became-a-godman/418345-3-239.html|accessdate=2 September 2013|newspaper=IBNLive|date=30 August 2013}}</ref> His birthname was Asumal Thaumal Harpalani<ref name="HT_clear_2013">{{cite news|title=Controversial godman: Can Asaram come clean on the rape allegations?|url=http://www.hindustantimes.com/India-news/Ahmedabad/Controversial-godman-Can-Asaram-come-clean-on-the-rape-allegations/Article1-1114370.aspx|newspaper=Hindustan Times|date=29 August 2013|accessdate=2 September 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|title=The Politics of Sex|url=http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/asaram-bapu-sexual-assault-politicians-protect-controversial-godman/1/304598.html|newspaper=India Today|date=30 August 2013}}</ref> or Asumal Sirumalani.<ref name=OneIndia>{{cite news|url=http://news.oneindia.in/2013/08/29/asaram-bapus-life-journey-from-a-tea-seller-to-the-spiritual-guru-1294490.html |title=Asaram Bapu's life journey from a tea seller to the spiritual guru |accessdate=1 September 2013|author=Preeti Panwar}}</ref> |
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Following the [[partition of India]] in 1947, he and his family moved to [[Ahmedabad]], then part of the former [[Bombay State]] in India, now [[Gujarat]], leaving behind their immovable assets in [[Sindh]]. Subsequently, the family moved to Ahmedabad, where Asaram's father founded a coal and wood business. Asaram ran this business for a short time after his father's death.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://in.news.yahoo.com/how-much-are-asaram-s-assets-worth--132259632.html|title=How much are Asaram's assets worth?|date=2 September 2013|work=Yahoo News India}}</ref> At one time (1958–1959), he [[chaiwala|sold tea]] in front of the Magistrate's office.<ref name=OneIndia /> |
Following the [[partition of India]] in 1947, he and his family moved to [[Ahmedabad]], then part of the former [[Bombay State]] in India, now [[Gujarat]], leaving behind their immovable assets in [[Sindh]]. Subsequently, the family moved to Ahmedabad, where Asaram Bapu's father founded a coal and wood business. Asaram Bapu ran this business for a short time after his father's death.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://in.news.yahoo.com/how-much-are-asaram-s-assets-worth--132259632.html|title=How much are Asaram's assets worth?|date=2 September 2013|work=Yahoo News India}}</ref> At one time (1958–1959), he [[chaiwala|sold tea]] in front of the Magistrate's office.<ref name=OneIndia /> |
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After his father's death, Asaram dropped out of Jai Hind High School, where he had studied till class III. According to ''Sant |
After his father's death, Asaram Bapu dropped out of Jai Hind High School, where he had studied till class III. According to ''Sant Asaram Bapuji ki Jeevan Jhanki'', a biography published by his ashram, he ran away to an ashram in [[Bharuch]] at the of 15, eight days before his scheduled wedding. His family persuaded him to return, and he married Laxmi Devi. At the age of 23, he again left home and wandered in [[pilgrimage places in India|pilgrimage places]] in Uttarakhand and Uttar pradesh. He met the spiritual guru [[Lilashah]] in Nainital, wanting to be his disciple; but the guru sent him back home. Thirteen days later after the return, he left home for another Ashram, but was sent back again. He then visited Lilashah once again, who accepted him as a disciple in [[Vrindavan]]. Lilashah named him Asaram Bapu on 7 October 1964.<ref name="IE_rise_2013"/><ref>{{cite web | url=http://aajtak.intoday.in/story/asaram-profile-1-740713.html | title=जब मोदी से बोले आसाराम, ‘देखें तुम्हारी गद्दी कब तक और कैसे रहती है | work=Aaj Tak | accessdate=2 September 2013|trans_title=Asaram Modi told him, 'See how long and how is your throne'|language=Hindi}}</ref> |
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Asaram and Laxmi Devi have two children: [[Narayan Sai]] and [[Bharti Shriji|Bharti Devi]]. |
Asaram Bapu and Laxmi Devi have two children: [[Narayan Sai]] and [[Bharti Shriji|Bharti Devi]]. |
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== Ashrams == |
== Ashrams == |
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According to ''Sant |
According to ''Sant Asaram Bapuji ki Jeevan Jhanki'', Asaram Bapu returned to Ahmedabad on 8 July 1971. On 29 January 1972, he built a hut at [[Motera]], then a village on the banks of the Sabarmati.<ref name="IE_rise_2013"/> Although his official biography doesn't mention it, Asaram Bapu also lived in [[Motera]]'s Sadashiv Ashram for two years, before setting up his own hut adjacent to it.<ref name="tehelka_taint_2013">{{cite web|url=http://www.tehelka.com/the-saint-and-his-taint/?singlepage=1|title=The saint and his taint|work=Tehelka.com}}</ref> He converted his hutment into an ashram in 1973, starting with 5-10 followers. In 1981 and 1992, the [[Indian National Congress]]-led state government allotted the ashram 14,515 m<sup>2</sup> land. In 1997 and 1999, the [[Bharatiya Janata Party]]-led government allotted it 25,000 m<sup>2</sup> for expansion.<ref name="IE_rise_2013"/> Asaram Bapu had few followers in the beginning, but the numbers increased as local politicians became his devotees.<ref name="open_dark_2013"/> |
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By 2013, Asaram had 400 major and minor ashrams in India and abroad, with numerous followers.<ref name="open_dark_2013">{{cite web|url=http://www.openthemagazine.com/article/nation/the-dark-side-of-asaram-bapu|title=The Dark Side of Asaram Bapu|work=OPEN Magazine}}</ref> |
By 2013, Asaram Bapu had 400 major and minor ashrams in India and abroad, with numerous followers.<ref name="open_dark_2013">{{cite web|url=http://www.openthemagazine.com/article/nation/the-dark-side-of-asaram-bapu|title=The Dark Side of Asaram Bapu|work=OPEN Magazine}}</ref> |
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In 2000, Asaram's ashram was allocated about 10 acres (4 ha) of land in Bhairavi village of [[Navsari district]] by the Gujarat government. The ashram encroached on an additional 6 acres (6 ha), leading to protests in the local villages. On a complaint filed by locals, and after repeated notices were ignored, the district authorities with police assistance bulldozed the encroachments and took possession of the land.<ref name="thai-demolish">{{cite news|url=http://www.thaindian.com/newsportal/uncategorized/asaram-ashram-encroachment-demolished-in-gujarat_100466359.html|title=Asaram ashram encroachment demolished in Gujarat|publisher=Thaindian News |date=27 November 2010|accessdate=11 January 2013}}</ref> |
In 2000, Asaram Bapu's ashram was allocated about 10 acres (4 ha) of land in Bhairavi village of [[Navsari district]] by the Gujarat government. The ashram encroached on an additional 6 acres (6 ha), leading to protests in the local villages. On a complaint filed by locals, and after repeated notices were ignored, the district authorities with police assistance bulldozed the encroachments and took possession of the land.<ref name="thai-demolish">{{cite news|url=http://www.thaindian.com/newsportal/uncategorized/asaram-ashram-encroachment-demolished-in-gujarat_100466359.html|title=Asaram ashram encroachment demolished in Gujarat|publisher=Thaindian News |date=27 November 2010|accessdate=11 January 2013}}</ref> |
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On 8 January 2010, the Gujarat government took over 67,059 m<sup>2</sup> of land from Asaram's Ahmedabad ashram, stating that the ashram had encroached on it. The government also took over 70 acres of agricultural land bought by Asaram's family in [[Sabarkantha]], arguging that the family had forged papers to show themselves as farmers.<ref name="IE_rise_2013"/> |
On 8 January 2010, the Gujarat government took over 67,059 m<sup>2</sup> of land from Asaram Bapu's Ahmedabad ashram, stating that the ashram had encroached on it. The government also took over 70 acres of agricultural land bought by Asaram Bapu's family in [[Sabarkantha]], arguging that the family had forged papers to show themselves as farmers.<ref name="IE_rise_2013"/> |
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=== Outside Gujarat === |
=== Outside Gujarat === |
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In 2009, the Bihar State Religious Trust forced Asaram's ashram to vacate a piece of land in [[Patna]], following a court case. According to the trust, Asaram and his followers had usurped the land for a temple.<ref name="IE_rise_2013"/> |
In 2009, the Bihar State Religious Trust forced Asaram Bapu's ashram to vacate a piece of land in [[Patna]], following a court case. According to the trust, Asaram Bapu and his followers had usurped the land for a temple.<ref name="IE_rise_2013"/> |
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In 2001, the Yog Vedanta Samiti of Asaram was reportedly given permission to use the premises of the Mangalya temple in Ratlam in [[Madhya Pradesh]] for 11 days for a [[satsang]]. The samiti failed to vacate the premises after the satsang, and continue to occupy a total of 40 ha (100 acres) of land, valued at over R7 billion.<ref name="toi-700cr">{{cite news|url=http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2013-01-17/bhopal/36393250_1_asaram-bapu-narayan-sai-sfio |title=Asaram Bapu's prosecution sought for Rs 700cr land grab |publisher=Times Of India|date=17 January 2013 |accessdate=2 February 2013}}</ref> The land belongs to the now defunct Jayant Vitamins Limited.<ref name="toi-700cr"/> Asaram denied any involvement, saying the reports were baseless and untenable.<ref name="mc-700cr">{{cite web|url=http://www.moneycontrol.com/news/current-affairs/asaram-denies-involvementrs-700-cr-land-grab-casemp_809615.html |title=Asaram denies involvement in Rs 700 cr land grab case in MP|publisher=Money Control |date=18 January 2013 |accessdate=2 February 2013}}</ref> |
In 2001, the Yog Vedanta Samiti of Asaram Bapu was reportedly given permission to use the premises of the Mangalya temple in Ratlam in [[Madhya Pradesh]] for 11 days for a [[satsang]]. The samiti failed to vacate the premises after the satsang, and continue to occupy a total of 40 ha (100 acres) of land, valued at over R7 billion.<ref name="toi-700cr">{{cite news|url=http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2013-01-17/bhopal/36393250_1_asaram-bapu-narayan-sai-sfio |title=Asaram Bapu's prosecution sought for Rs 700cr land grab |publisher=Times Of India|date=17 January 2013 |accessdate=2 February 2013}}</ref> The land belongs to the now defunct Jayant Vitamins Limited.<ref name="toi-700cr"/> Asaram Bapu denied any involvement, saying the reports were baseless and untenable.<ref name="mc-700cr">{{cite web|url=http://www.moneycontrol.com/news/current-affairs/asaram-denies-involvementrs-700-cr-land-grab-casemp_809615.html |title=Asaram denies involvement in Rs 700 cr land grab case in MP|publisher=Money Control |date=18 January 2013 |accessdate=2 February 2013}}</ref> |
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In 2002, Asaram's followers convinced a [[Rajokri]]-based devotee Bhagwani Devi to donate some of her property to Asaram's trust. She agreed, but Asaram's men forged the [[power of attorney]] and transferred all her land the trust.<ref name="tehelka_taint_2013"/> |
In 2002, Asaram Bapu's followers convinced a [[Rajokri]]-based devotee Bhagwani Devi to donate some of her property to Asaram Bapu's trust. She agreed, but Asaram Bapu's men forged the [[power of attorney]] and transferred all her land the trust.<ref name="tehelka_taint_2013"/> |
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The Nashik Municipal Corporation destroyed a part of his ashram in [[Bhilwara]] for a 10-year encroaching on government-owned land.<ref name=Kumar>{{cite news|last=Kumar|first=Krishna|title=Land grab allegations come to haunt Asaram Bapu again, illegal encroachment by ashram razed|date=13 September 2013|url=http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/asaram-land-grab-charges-asaram-ashrams-sexual-assault-charge/1/309517.html|accessdate=15 September 2013|newspaper=[[India Today]]}}, Also republished in the daily mail: [http://www.dailymail.co.uk/indiahome/indianews/article-2419314/Fall-empire-Two-Asarams-ashrams-partly-demolished-land-grab-charges-return-haunt-guru.html?ito=feeds-newsxml]</ref> |
The Nashik Municipal Corporation destroyed a part of his ashram in [[Bhilwara]] for a 10-year encroaching on government-owned land.<ref name=Kumar>{{cite news|last=Kumar|first=Krishna|title=Land grab allegations come to haunt Asaram Bapu again, illegal encroachment by ashram razed|date=13 September 2013|url=http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/asaram-land-grab-charges-asaram-ashrams-sexual-assault-charge/1/309517.html|accessdate=15 September 2013|newspaper=[[India Today]]}}, Also republished in the daily mail: [http://www.dailymail.co.uk/indiahome/indianews/article-2419314/Fall-empire-Two-Asarams-ashrams-partly-demolished-land-grab-charges-return-haunt-guru.html?ito=feeds-newsxml]</ref> |
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In Rajasthan, Asaram's disciples Bhanwar Lal Soni and Satya Narayan Dhoot who helped set up Asaram's Jodhpur ashram, alleged that their lands had been encroached by the ashram, and filed court cases.<ref name="IE_rise_2013"/> |
In Rajasthan, Asaram Bapu's disciples Bhanwar Lal Soni and Satya Narayan Dhoot who helped set up Asaram Bapu's Jodhpur ashram, alleged that their lands had been encroached by the ashram, and filed court cases.<ref name="IE_rise_2013"/> |
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In May 2013, the [[Cuttack]] Municipal Corporation razed an illegally built Asaram ashram.<ref name="tehelka_taint_2013"/> |
In May 2013, the [[Cuttack]] Municipal Corporation razed an illegally built Asaram Bapu ashram.<ref name="tehelka_taint_2013"/> |
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== Teachings == |
== Teachings == |
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=== Spiritual discourses === |
=== Spiritual discourses === |
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Asaram has organized spiritual discourses all over India, including in cities like [[Ahmedabad]] and [[Patna]]. His devotees are shown taking ''[[diksha]]'' (initiation by a guru) from him in these ''[[satsang]]'' programs. Around 20,000 students visited his ''satsang'' in Ahmedabad in December 2001.<ref name=SatsangCrowd>{{cite news | url = http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2001-12-02/ahmedabad/27250212_1_asaram-bapu-students-throng-sant | title = Students throng at Asaram Bapu's discourse | date = 2 December 2001 | accessdate = 2 December 2001 | work=The Times Of India}}</ref><ref name=dikshafollowers>{{cite news | url = http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2005-05-08/patna/27833997_1_asaram-bapu-diksha-disciples | title = Many to take 'diksha' today | date =8 May 2005 | accessdate = 8 May 2005 | work=The Times Of India}} Many to take 'diksha' today</ref> He preaches the existence of ''One Supreme Conscious'' and citing [[Bhakti|Bhakti yoga]], [[Gyan yoga|Gnana yoga]] and [[Karma|Karma yoga]] as influences. In August 2012, when he was reportedly to deliver a lecture in a local college, his helicopter crashed while landing at [[Godhra]]. Asaram, the pilot, and the other passengers survived.<ref>{{cite news|title=Spiritual leader Asaram Bapu survives chopper crash|url=http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2012-08-30/vadodara/33498016_1_asaram-bapu-chopper-crash-helicopter|accessdate=22 January 2013|newspaper=The Times of India|date=30 August 2012}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Kapoor|first=Nirnay|title=Mirculous escape for Asaram Bapu, helicopter crashlands in Godhra|url=http://www.indiatvnews.com/news/india/mirculous-escape-for-asaram-bapu-helicopter-crashlands-in-godhr-17518.html|work=India TV News|accessdate=22 January 2013|date=29 August 2012}}</ref> |
Asaram Bapu has organized spiritual discourses all over India, including in cities like [[Ahmedabad]] and [[Patna]]. His devotees are shown taking ''[[diksha]]'' (initiation by a guru) from him in these ''[[satsang]]'' programs. Around 20,000 students visited his ''satsang'' in Ahmedabad in December 2001.<ref name=SatsangCrowd>{{cite news | url = http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2001-12-02/ahmedabad/27250212_1_asaram-bapu-students-throng-sant | title = Students throng at Asaram Bapu's discourse | date = 2 December 2001 | accessdate = 2 December 2001 | work=The Times Of India}}</ref><ref name=dikshafollowers>{{cite news | url = http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2005-05-08/patna/27833997_1_asaram-bapu-diksha-disciples | title = Many to take 'diksha' today | date =8 May 2005 | accessdate = 8 May 2005 | work=The Times Of India}} Many to take 'diksha' today</ref> He preaches the existence of ''One Supreme Conscious'' and citing [[Bhakti|Bhakti yoga]], [[Gyan yoga|Gnana yoga]] and [[Karma|Karma yoga]] as influences. In August 2012, when he was reportedly to deliver a lecture in a local college, his helicopter crashed while landing at [[Godhra]]. Asaram Bapu, the pilot, and the other passengers survived.<ref>{{cite news|title=Spiritual leader Asaram Bapu survives chopper crash|url=http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2012-08-30/vadodara/33498016_1_asaram-bapu-chopper-crash-helicopter|accessdate=22 January 2013|newspaper=The Times of India|date=30 August 2012}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Kapoor|first=Nirnay|title=Mirculous escape for Asaram Bapu, helicopter crashlands in Godhra|url=http://www.indiatvnews.com/news/india/mirculous-escape-for-asaram-bapu-helicopter-crashlands-in-godhr-17518.html|work=India TV News|accessdate=22 January 2013|date=29 August 2012}}</ref> |
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In January 2013, while addressing a gathering of his followers, Asaram reportedly said that the victim of the [[2012 Delhi gang rape]] was as guilty as her rapists. He is reported to have said: "The victim is as guilty as her rapists… She should have called the culprits brothers and begged before them to stop… This could have saved her dignity and life. Can one hand clap? I don't think so."<ref name="express">{{cite news|url=http://www.indianexpress.com/news/asaram-bapu-holds-victim-responsible-for-delhi-gangrape/1055639/|title=Asaram Bapu holds girl responsible for Delhi gangrape, says 'spare' the rapists, slams media|work= [[The Indian Express]]|agency=[[Asian News International|ANI]]|date=8 January 2013|location=New Delhi|accessdate=1 September 2013}}</ref> He is also reported to have said that he was against harsher punishments for the accused in the Delhi rape victim case, as the law could be misused. To support his point, he is said to have stated that, "[[Dowry law in India]] is the biggest example of law being misused."<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.firstpost.com/india/delhi-gangrape-victim-as-guilty-as-rapists-asaram-bapu-579560.html|title= Delhi gangrape victim as guilty as rapists: Asaram Bapu|publisher=FirstPost|date=7 January 2013|accessdate=7 January 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.hindustantimes.com/India-news/NewDelhi/Asaram-Bapu-holds-victim-responsible-for-gangrape/Article1-986079.aspx|title=Asaram Bapu adds to shame, says victim at fault too|publisher=Hindustan Times|date=7 January 2013|accessdate=13 January 2013}}</ref> This alleged [[victim blaming|blamed]] was widely criticized, including by politicians belonging to the two major political parties - [[Bharatiya Janata Party]] and [[Indian National Congress]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.deccanherald.com/content/303548/asaram-bapu-holds-victim-responsible.html|title=Asaram says rape victim should have 'begged', draws flak|work=Deccan Herald}}</ref> Asaram later denied giving any statement blaming the victim, and stated that his statement had been distorted and misrepresented.<ref>{{cite web|url= http://in.news.yahoo.com/delhi-gang-rape-asaram-bapu-denies-controversial-144234916.html| title=Delhi gang rape: Asaram Bapu denies 'controversial' comment |
In January 2013, while addressing a gathering of his followers, Asaram Bapu reportedly said that the victim of the [[2012 Delhi gang rape]] was as guilty as her rapists. He is reported to have said: "The victim is as guilty as her rapists… She should have called the culprits brothers and begged before them to stop… This could have saved her dignity and life. Can one hand clap? I don't think so."<ref name="express">{{cite news|url=http://www.indianexpress.com/news/asaram-bapu-holds-victim-responsible-for-delhi-gangrape/1055639/|title=Asaram Bapu holds girl responsible for Delhi gangrape, says 'spare' the rapists, slams media|work= [[The Indian Express]]|agency=[[Asian News International|ANI]]|date=8 January 2013|location=New Delhi|accessdate=1 September 2013}}</ref> He is also reported to have said that he was against harsher punishments for the accused in the Delhi rape victim case, as the law could be misused. To support his point, he is said to have stated that, "[[Dowry law in India]] is the biggest example of law being misused."<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.firstpost.com/india/delhi-gangrape-victim-as-guilty-as-rapists-asaram-bapu-579560.html|title= Delhi gangrape victim as guilty as rapists: Asaram Bapu|publisher=FirstPost|date=7 January 2013|accessdate=7 January 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.hindustantimes.com/India-news/NewDelhi/Asaram-Bapu-holds-victim-responsible-for-gangrape/Article1-986079.aspx|title=Asaram Bapu adds to shame, says victim at fault too|publisher=Hindustan Times|date=7 January 2013|accessdate=13 January 2013}}</ref> This alleged [[victim blaming|blamed]] was widely criticized, including by politicians belonging to the two major political parties - [[Bharatiya Janata Party]] and [[Indian National Congress]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.deccanherald.com/content/303548/asaram-bapu-holds-victim-responsible.html|title=Asaram says rape victim should have 'begged', draws flak|work=Deccan Herald}}</ref> Asaram Bapu later denied giving any statement blaming the victim, and stated that his statement had been distorted and misrepresented.<ref>{{cite web|url= http://in.news.yahoo.com/delhi-gang-rape-asaram-bapu-denies-controversial-144234916.html| title=Delhi gang rape: Asaram Bapu denies 'controversial' comment |
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|publisher=India News|date=8 January 2013 |accessdate=26 August 2013}}</ref> He announced a reward of {{INR}} 50,000 for anyone who could prove that he blamed the victim.<ref>{{cite web|url= http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/asaram-on-gangrape-victim-godman-announces-rs-50000-reward-for-proving-he-blamed-victim/1/242487.html| title= Asaram on gangrape victim: Godman announces Rs.50,000 reward for proving he blamed victim|publisher=India Today|date= 16 January 2013|accessdate= 26 August 2013 }}</ref> |
|publisher=India News|date=8 January 2013 |accessdate=26 August 2013}}</ref> He announced a reward of {{INR}} 50,000 for anyone who could prove that he blamed the victim.<ref>{{cite web|url= http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/asaram-on-gangrape-victim-godman-announces-rs-50000-reward-for-proving-he-blamed-victim/1/242487.html| title= Asaram on gangrape victim: Godman announces Rs.50,000 reward for proving he blamed victim|publisher=India Today|date= 16 January 2013|accessdate= 26 August 2013 }}</ref> |
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===Parents' Worship Day=== |
===Parents' Worship Day=== |
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In 2011, Asaram's Yoga Vedanta Seva Samiti (YVSS), organized a ''Matri Pitri Poojan Divas'' ("mother-father worship day") on 14 February, declaring [[Valentine's Day]] as a Western cultural invasion. Over 700 parents and children participated in the programme at [[Rourkela]], [[Orissa]].<ref name=NIE1>{{cite news|title=Indianisation of Valentine’s Day|url=http://newindianexpress.com/states/odisha/article396976.ece|accessdate=17 October 2013|newspaper=New Indian Express|date=15 February 2011}}</ref> |
In 2011, Asaram Bapu's Yoga Vedanta Seva Samiti (YVSS), organized a ''Matri Pitri Poojan Divas'' ("mother-father worship day") on 14 February, declaring [[Valentine's Day]] as a Western cultural invasion. Over 700 parents and children participated in the programme at [[Rourkela]], [[Orissa]].<ref name=NIE1>{{cite news|title=Indianisation of Valentine’s Day|url=http://newindianexpress.com/states/odisha/article396976.ece|accessdate=17 October 2013|newspaper=New Indian Express|date=15 February 2011}}</ref> |
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In 2012, Asaram requested people all over India to celebrate "Parents' Worship Day", as an alternative to Valentine's Day.<ref name="India Today 29 January 2012">{{cite news|title=Worship parents on Valentine's Day, says Asaram Bapu|url=http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/worship-parents-on-valentines-day-asaram-bapu/1/171080.html|accessdate=1 September 2013|newspaper=India Today|date=29 January 2012|archiveurl=http://www.webcitation.org/6JJMvYpeZ|archivedate=1 September 2013}}</ref> His ashram published a booklet which described importance of worshipping one's own parents.<ref>{{cite news|last=Day|first=Parents Worship|title=Worship parents on Valentine's Day, says Asaram Bapu|url=http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/worship-parents-on-valentines-day-asaram-bapu/1/171080.html|accessdate=13 February 2013|newspaper=India Today|date=29 January 2012}}</ref> Asaram's proposal was supported by many prominent Indian politicians including President [[Pranab Mukherjee]].<ref>{{cite news|title=Commoner vs Asaram: Her word against the 'Gospel'! |url=http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/commoner-vs-asaram-bapu-her-word-against-the-gospel/1/300759.html |accessdate=17 October 2013 |newspaper=India Today|date=22 August 2013|author=Prerna Koul Mishra}}</ref> In 2015, the Government of the [[Chhattisgarh]] state institutionalized the practice, and directed all schools to observe ''Matru-Pitru Diwas'' ("mother-father day") every year on 14 February.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Its-official-Chhattisgarh-renames-V-Day-as-Matru-Pitru-Diwas/articleshow/46151391.cms|title=It’s official: Chhattisgarh renames V-Day as ‘Matru-Pitru Diwas’|work=The Times of India}}</ref> |
In 2012, Asaram Bapu requested people all over India to celebrate "Parents' Worship Day", as an alternative to Valentine's Day.<ref name="India Today 29 January 2012">{{cite news|title=Worship parents on Valentine's Day, says Asaram Bapu|url=http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/worship-parents-on-valentines-day-asaram-bapu/1/171080.html|accessdate=1 September 2013|newspaper=India Today|date=29 January 2012|archiveurl=http://www.webcitation.org/6JJMvYpeZ|archivedate=1 September 2013}}</ref> His ashram published a booklet which described importance of worshipping one's own parents.<ref>{{cite news|last=Day|first=Parents Worship|title=Worship parents on Valentine's Day, says Asaram Bapu|url=http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/worship-parents-on-valentines-day-asaram-bapu/1/171080.html|accessdate=13 February 2013|newspaper=India Today|date=29 January 2012}}</ref> Asaram Bapu's proposal was supported by many prominent Indian politicians including President [[Pranab Mukherjee]].<ref>{{cite news|title=Commoner vs Asaram: Her word against the 'Gospel'! |url=http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/commoner-vs-asaram-bapu-her-word-against-the-gospel/1/300759.html |accessdate=17 October 2013 |newspaper=India Today|date=22 August 2013|author=Prerna Koul Mishra}}</ref> In 2015, the Government of the [[Chhattisgarh]] state institutionalized the practice, and directed all schools to observe ''Matru-Pitru Diwas'' ("mother-father day") every year on 14 February.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Its-official-Chhattisgarh-renames-V-Day-as-Matru-Pitru-Diwas/articleshow/46151391.cms|title=It’s official: Chhattisgarh renames V-Day as ‘Matru-Pitru Diwas’|work=The Times of India}}</ref> |
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== Gurukul deaths case == |
== Gurukul deaths case == |
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By 2008, 40 of Asaram's ashrams had [[gurukul]]s (residential schools). The deaths of four boys at two of these Ashrams in 2008 led to allegations of [[black magic]] being practiced there.<ref name="IE_rise_2013">{{cite web|url=http://archive.indianexpress.com/news/exclusive-the-rise-and-fall-of-the-guru/1163258/0|title=Exclusive: The rise and fall of the guru|work=indianexpress.com}}</ref> |
By 2008, 40 of Asaram Bapu's ashrams had [[gurukul]]s (residential schools). The deaths of four boys at two of these Ashrams in 2008 led to allegations of [[black magic]] being practiced there.<ref name="IE_rise_2013">{{cite web|url=http://archive.indianexpress.com/news/exclusive-the-rise-and-fall-of-the-guru/1163258/0|title=Exclusive: The rise and fall of the guru|work=indianexpress.com}}</ref> |
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On 3 July 2008, two boys went missing from Asaram's residential school (gurukul) in Motera.<ref name="open_dark_2013"/> On 5 July 2013 - the boys' mutilated bodies were found on the banks of the Sabarmati river near the Ashram. The parents alleged that the police harassed them and refused to register a complaint against Asaram or the ashram administration.<ref name="open_dark_2013" /> The incident led to public agitations, with allegations that the boys had been sacrificed by Asaram and his followers for [[black magic]].<ref name="IE_Lawyer_2013" /> |
On 3 July 2008, two boys went missing from Asaram Bapu's residential school (gurukul) in Motera.<ref name="open_dark_2013"/> On 5 July 2013 - the boys' mutilated bodies were found on the banks of the Sabarmati river near the Ashram. The parents alleged that the police harassed them and refused to register a complaint against Asaram Bapu or the ashram administration.<ref name="open_dark_2013" /> The incident led to public agitations, with allegations that the boys had been sacrificed by Asaram Bapu and his followers for [[black magic]].<ref name="IE_Lawyer_2013" /> |
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Two dead bodies were also found in Asaram's [[Chhindwara]] ashram, leading to protests by the local residents. On 29 July 2008, a nursery student was found dead in the ashram's toilet.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/minor-found-dead-in-asaram-bapu-ashram-in-mp/article1-327616.aspx|title=Minor found dead in Asaram Bapu Ashram in MP |newspaper=Hindustan Times }}</ref> The police initially suspected that he had slipped on the floor, and died from injuries. On 31 July, another student 5-year old was found dead in the toilet.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://zeenews.india.com/home/asaram-bapus-ashram-in-chhindwara-sealed_459721.html|title=Asaram Bapu’s ashram in Chhindwara sealed|work=Zee News}}</ref> A forensic examination revealed that the bite mark matched the teeth of a senior student. On 4 August, the senior student was arrested for the murders. According to the police, he lured the victims to the toilet with the chocolates and killed them.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.rediff.com/news/2008/aug/03asa.htm|title='Class 9 student killed mates at Asaram school'|work=rediff.com}}</ref> The parents of the boys' gave a clean chit to Asaram.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.outlookindia.com/news/article/parents-give-clean-chit-to-asaram-bapu-ashram-over-sons-death/594637|title=Parents give clean chit to Asaram Bapu Ashram over son's death - Aug 01,2008|work=outlookindia.com}}</ref> |
Two dead bodies were also found in Asaram Bapu's [[Chhindwara]] ashram, leading to protests by the local residents. On 29 July 2008, a nursery student was found dead in the ashram's toilet.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/minor-found-dead-in-asaram-bapu-ashram-in-mp/article1-327616.aspx|title=Minor found dead in Asaram Bapu Ashram in MP |newspaper=Hindustan Times }}</ref> The police initially suspected that he had slipped on the floor, and died from injuries. On 31 July, another student 5-year old was found dead in the toilet.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://zeenews.india.com/home/asaram-bapus-ashram-in-chhindwara-sealed_459721.html|title=Asaram Bapu’s ashram in Chhindwara sealed|work=Zee News}}</ref> A forensic examination revealed that the bite mark matched the teeth of a senior student. On 4 August, the senior student was arrested for the murders. According to the police, he lured the victims to the toilet with the chocolates and killed them.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.rediff.com/news/2008/aug/03asa.htm|title='Class 9 student killed mates at Asaram school'|work=rediff.com}}</ref> The parents of the boys' gave a clean chit to Asaram Bapu.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.outlookindia.com/news/article/parents-give-clean-chit-to-asaram-bapu-ashram-over-sons-death/594637|title=Parents give clean chit to Asaram Bapu Ashram over son's death - Aug 01,2008|work=outlookindia.com}}</ref> |
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The [[Narendra Modi]]-led Gujarat state government set up the Justice D.K. Trivedi Commission to probe the deaths in the Motera ashram.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/tp-newdelhi/parents-of-boys-demand-cbi-probe/article5212003.ece|title=Parents of boys demand CBI probe|work=The Hindu}}</ref> In 2009, Asaram's followers organized a rally, protesting against their alleged harassment by the Gujarat police. The protest turned violent, and over 200 supporters of Asaram were arrested after they attacked and injured 20 policemen.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.dnaindia.com/india/report-asaram-supporters-thrash-cops-203-booked-for-rioting-1317005|title=Asaram supporters thrash cops, 203 booked for rioting|work=dna}}</ref> In 2012, when Asaram was summoned by the Trivedi Commission, he issued a threat to the Narendra Modi government, saying that any further "suppression" of him and his followers would result in Modi being "thrown out".<ref>{{cite web|url=http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/gujarat-asaram-bapu-narendra-modi/1/215836.html|title=Asaram Bapu warns Narendra Modi against 'suppression'|work=intoday.in}}</ref> |
The [[Narendra Modi]]-led Gujarat state government set up the Justice D.K. Trivedi Commission to probe the deaths in the Motera ashram.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/tp-newdelhi/parents-of-boys-demand-cbi-probe/article5212003.ece|title=Parents of boys demand CBI probe|work=The Hindu}}</ref> In 2009, Asaram Bapu's followers organized a rally, protesting against their alleged harassment by the Gujarat police. The protest turned violent, and over 200 supporters of Asaram Bapu were arrested after they attacked and injured 20 policemen.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.dnaindia.com/india/report-asaram-supporters-thrash-cops-203-booked-for-rioting-1317005|title=Asaram supporters thrash cops, 203 booked for rioting|work=dna}}</ref> In 2012, when Asaram Bapu was summoned by the Trivedi Commission, he issued a threat to the Narendra Modi government, saying that any further "suppression" of him and his followers would result in Modi being "thrown out".<ref>{{cite web|url=http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/gujarat-asaram-bapu-narendra-modi/1/215836.html|title=Asaram Bapu warns Narendra Modi against 'suppression'|work=intoday.in}}</ref> |
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Raju Chandak, a former aide of Asaram, told the DK Trivedi Commission that black magic and suspicious financial dools took place at the ashram.<ref name="DNA_fortress_2009">{{cite web|url = http://www.dnaindia.com/india/report-chandak-s-home-a-police-fortress-1323877|title = Chandak’s home a police fortress|work = dna}}</ref> Mahender Chawla, secretary of Narayan Sai during 2001-2005, told the Commmission that he had seen Sai performed [[black magic]] in presence of dead bodies. As an example, he stated that Sai had recited [[mantra]]s over the body of child covered with black cloth at Kalyan Ashram in [[Jhabua district]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://zeenews.india.com/news/gujarat/asarams-son-practices-black-magic-ex-pa_569418.html|title=Asaram`s son practices black magic: Ex-PA|work=Zee News}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/ahmedabad/Asarams-son-performed-black-magic-at-ashram/articleshow/5103692.cms|title=Asaram's son performed black magic at ashram|work=The Times of India}}</ref> Shekhar Kashmirilal Giridhar, another former follower of Asaram, claimed that he had never seen black magic being performed at the ashram.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.dnaindia.com/india/report-i-know-nothing-about-black-magic-1331053|title=‘I know nothing about black magic’|work=dna}}</ref> In 2013, the lawyer of the deceased boys' parents admitted that there was no evidence of black magic having been practised on the two boys, but did not rule out the possibility.<ref name="IE_Lawyer_2013">{{cite web|url=http://archive.indianexpress.com/news/deaths-in-ashram-no-evidence-of-black-magic-says-lawyer/1062387/0|title=Deaths in Ashram: No evidence of black magic, says lawyer|work=indianexpress.com}}</ref> |
Raju Chandak, a former aide of Asaram Bapu, told the DK Trivedi Commission that black magic and suspicious financial dools took place at the ashram.<ref name="DNA_fortress_2009">{{cite web|url = http://www.dnaindia.com/india/report-chandak-s-home-a-police-fortress-1323877|title = Chandak’s home a police fortress|work = dna}}</ref> Mahender Chawla, secretary of Narayan Sai during 2001-2005, told the Commmission that he had seen Sai performed [[black magic]] in presence of dead bodies. As an example, he stated that Sai had recited [[mantra]]s over the body of child covered with black cloth at Kalyan Ashram in [[Jhabua district]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://zeenews.india.com/news/gujarat/asarams-son-practices-black-magic-ex-pa_569418.html|title=Asaram`s son practices black magic: Ex-PA|work=Zee News}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/ahmedabad/Asarams-son-performed-black-magic-at-ashram/articleshow/5103692.cms|title=Asaram's son performed black magic at ashram|work=The Times of India}}</ref> Shekhar Kashmirilal Giridhar, another former follower of Asaram Bapu, claimed that he had never seen black magic being performed at the ashram.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.dnaindia.com/india/report-i-know-nothing-about-black-magic-1331053|title=‘I know nothing about black magic’|work=dna}}</ref> In 2013, the lawyer of the deceased boys' parents admitted that there was no evidence of black magic having been practised on the two boys, but did not rule out the possibility.<ref name="IE_Lawyer_2013">{{cite web|url=http://archive.indianexpress.com/news/deaths-in-ashram-no-evidence-of-black-magic-says-lawyer/1062387/0|title=Deaths in Ashram: No evidence of black magic, says lawyer|work=indianexpress.com}}</ref> |
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== Arrest == |
== Arrest == |
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In August 2013, a 16-year-old girl accused Asaram of sexually assaulting her at his ashram in [[Jodhpur]] on the pretext of exorcising her from evil spirits.<ref name="NDTV_Jodhpur_2013">{{cite web|url=http://www.ndtv.com/india-news/asaram-bapu-brought-to-jodhpur-after-late-night-arrest-533252|title=Asaram Bapu brought to Jodhpur after late night arrest|publisher=NDTV|date=1 September 2013|accessdate=2 September 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|title=After rape, Asaram Bapu threatened me to keep quiet, says girl|url=http://archive.financialexpress.com/news/after-rape-asaram-bapu-threatened-me-to-keep-quiet-says-girl/1160366 |newspaper=Financial Express|date=26 August 2013|accessdate=2 September 2013}}</ref> The girl's parents filed a complaint with the police in [[Delhi]], and a medical examination confirmed that she had been assaulted.<ref>{{cite news|title=Asaram Bapu rape case: Medical test confirms sexual assault of victim|url=http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/asaram-bapu-rape-case-medical-test-confirms-sexual-assualt/1/300632.html|newspaper=India Today|date=21 August 2013|accessdate=2 September 2013}}</ref> |
In August 2013, a 16-year-old girl accused Asaram Bapu of sexually assaulting her at his ashram in [[Jodhpur]] on the pretext of exorcising her from evil spirits.<ref name="NDTV_Jodhpur_2013">{{cite web|url=http://www.ndtv.com/india-news/asaram-bapu-brought-to-jodhpur-after-late-night-arrest-533252|title=Asaram Bapu brought to Jodhpur after late night arrest|publisher=NDTV|date=1 September 2013|accessdate=2 September 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|title=After rape, Asaram Bapu threatened me to keep quiet, says girl|url=http://archive.financialexpress.com/news/after-rape-asaram-bapu-threatened-me-to-keep-quiet-says-girl/1160366 |newspaper=Financial Express|date=26 August 2013|accessdate=2 September 2013}}</ref> The girl's parents filed a complaint with the police in [[Delhi]], and a medical examination confirmed that she had been assaulted.<ref>{{cite news|title=Asaram Bapu rape case: Medical test confirms sexual assault of victim|url=http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/asaram-bapu-rape-case-medical-test-confirms-sexual-assualt/1/300632.html|newspaper=India Today|date=21 August 2013|accessdate=2 September 2013}}</ref> |
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When Asaram did not appear for interrogation by 31 August,<ref name="TH_attack_2013">{{Cite news| url=http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/other-states/asaram-supporters-attack-on-journalists-condemned/article5079624.ece |title=Asaram supporters attack on journalists condemned |work=The Hindu|date=31 August 2013 |last=Singh |first=Mahim Pratap |location=Chennai, India}}</ref> Delhi police booked him under [[Indian Penal Code]] sections 342 (wrongful confinement), 376 (rape), 506 (criminal intimidation), and sections of the Juvenile Justice Act, and the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/fir-registered-by-victim-against-asaram-bapu-reveals-a-horrific-tale-of-sexually-assault/1/304713.html|title=FIR registered by victim against Asaram Bapu reveals a horrific tale of sexual assault|work=intoday.in}}</ref> Asaram remained inside his other ashram in [[Indore]] and avoided arrest while his devotees clashed with journalists and policemen outside.<ref name="TH_attack_2013" /> Eventually, the Jodhpur police arrested him on 1 September 2013 from his ashram.<ref name="NDTV_Jodhpur_2013" /><ref>{{cite news|title=Indian guru Asaram Bapu arrested over rape claims|url=http://www.theguardian.com/world/2013/sep/01/indian-guru-asaram-bapu-rape-claim|date=1 September 2013}}</ref> |
When Asaram Bapu did not appear for interrogation by 31 August,<ref name="TH_attack_2013">{{Cite news| url=http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/other-states/asaram-supporters-attack-on-journalists-condemned/article5079624.ece |title=Asaram supporters attack on journalists condemned |work=The Hindu|date=31 August 2013 |last=Singh |first=Mahim Pratap |location=Chennai, India}}</ref> Delhi police booked him under [[Indian Penal Code]] sections 342 (wrongful confinement), 376 (rape), 506 (criminal intimidation), and sections of the Juvenile Justice Act, and the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/fir-registered-by-victim-against-asaram-bapu-reveals-a-horrific-tale-of-sexually-assault/1/304713.html|title=FIR registered by victim against Asaram Bapu reveals a horrific tale of sexual assault|work=intoday.in}}</ref> Asaram Bapu remained inside his other ashram in [[Indore]] and avoided arrest while his devotees clashed with journalists and policemen outside.<ref name="TH_attack_2013" /> Eventually, the Jodhpur police arrested him on 1 September 2013 from his ashram.<ref name="NDTV_Jodhpur_2013" /><ref>{{cite news|title=Indian guru Asaram Bapu arrested over rape claims|url=http://www.theguardian.com/world/2013/sep/01/indian-guru-asaram-bapu-rape-claim|date=1 September 2013}}</ref> |
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Asaram dismissed the girl's allegations, and claimed that the accusations were a conspiracy orchestrated by [[Sonia Gandhi]] and her son [[Rahul Gandhi]] of the then-ruling Congress Party.<ref>{{cite news|title=Bakwaas: Asaram Bapu's response to charges that he threatened teen girl|url=http://www.ndtv.com/article/india/bakwaas-asaram-bapu-s-response-to-charges-that-he-threatened-teen-girl-410966|newspaper=NDTV|date=27 August 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|title=Sonia & Rahul running a campaign against me, says Asaram Bapu|url=http://www.deccanchronicle.com/130829/news-current-affairs/article/sonia-rahul-running-campaign-against-me-says-asaram-bapu|newspaper=Deccan Chronicle|date=29 August 2013|accessdate=2 September 2013}}</ref> He had also claimed that he was impotent and not capable of sexual assault, however this was proven to be a lie as tests showed him to be capable of the act.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/asaram-tells-police-he-is-impotent/1/305098.html|title=Asaram tells police he is impotent, potency test says he has active libido|work=intoday.in}}</ref> He has since been in jail and denied bail multiple times.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.rediff.com/news/report/asarams-son-narayan-sai-gets-temporary-bail/20150525.htm|title=Asaram's son Narayan Sai gets temporary bail|date=25 May 2015|work=rediff.com}}</ref> |
Asaram Bapu dismissed the girl's allegations, and claimed that the accusations were a conspiracy orchestrated by [[Sonia Gandhi]] and her son [[Rahul Gandhi]] of the then-ruling Congress Party.<ref>{{cite news|title=Bakwaas: Asaram Bapu's response to charges that he threatened teen girl|url=http://www.ndtv.com/article/india/bakwaas-asaram-bapu-s-response-to-charges-that-he-threatened-teen-girl-410966|newspaper=NDTV|date=27 August 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|title=Sonia & Rahul running a campaign against me, says Asaram Bapu|url=http://www.deccanchronicle.com/130829/news-current-affairs/article/sonia-rahul-running-campaign-against-me-says-asaram-bapu|newspaper=Deccan Chronicle|date=29 August 2013|accessdate=2 September 2013}}</ref> He had also claimed that he was impotent and not capable of sexual assault, however this was proven to be a lie as tests showed him to be capable of the act.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/asaram-tells-police-he-is-impotent/1/305098.html|title=Asaram tells police he is impotent, potency test says he has active libido|work=intoday.in}}</ref> He has since been in jail and denied bail multiple times.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.rediff.com/news/report/asarams-son-narayan-sai-gets-temporary-bail/20150525.htm|title=Asaram's son Narayan Sai gets temporary bail|date=25 May 2015|work=rediff.com}}</ref> |
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In December 2013, Asaram's son Narayan Sai was also arrested on charges of rape, after two sisters from [[Surat]] alleged that he and his father had raped them in Asaram's ashram during the mid-2000s.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://zeenews.india.com/news/nation/asarams-son-narayan-sai-arrested-gujarat-police-get-one-day-remand_894234.html|title=Asaram’s son Narayan Sai arrested, Gujarat Police get one-day remand|work=Zee News}}</ref> The elder sister accused Asaram of repeated sexual assaults during 1997-2006 at the Motera ashram. The younger sister accused Narayan Sai of sexually assaulting her during 2002-2005 at the Surat ashram. One of the sisters also alleged that Asaram's wife and daughter helped the two men exploit the girls.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.dnaindia.com/india/report-police-arrest-asaram-bapus-wife-daughter-release-them-1939662|title=Police arrest Asaram Bapu's wife, daughter; release them|work=dna}}</ref> |
In December 2013, Asaram Bapu's son Narayan Sai was also arrested on charges of rape, after two sisters from [[Surat]] alleged that he and his father had raped them in Asaram Bapu's ashram during the mid-2000s.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://zeenews.india.com/news/nation/asarams-son-narayan-sai-arrested-gujarat-police-get-one-day-remand_894234.html|title=Asaram’s son Narayan Sai arrested, Gujarat Police get one-day remand|work=Zee News}}</ref> The elder sister accused Asaram Bapu of repeated sexual assaults during 1997-2006 at the Motera ashram. The younger sister accused Narayan Sai of sexually assaulting her during 2002-2005 at the Surat ashram. One of the sisters also alleged that Asaram Bapu's wife and daughter helped the two men exploit the girls.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.dnaindia.com/india/report-police-arrest-asaram-bapus-wife-daughter-release-them-1939662|title=Police arrest Asaram Bapu's wife, daughter; release them|work=dna}}</ref> |
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=== Threats and attacks === |
=== Threats and attacks === |
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In September 2013, the father of the 16-year-old girl who accused Asaram of sexually assaulting her alleged that he had received death threats from Asaram's followers. He submitted audio clippings of these threats to the court.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ndtv.com/india-news/asarams-men-threatening-girls-family-says-lawyer-godmans-custody-extended-534715|title=Asaram's men threatening girl's family says lawyer, godman's custody extended|author=Harsha Kumari Singh|date=16 September 2013|work=NDTV.com}}</ref> In October 2013, Surat Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Shobha Bhutada also alleged that Asaram's supporters had threatened her, and asked her to stopped the probe against Asaram.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://zeenews.india.com/news/gujarat/surat-dcp-alleges-threat-to-life-from-asaram-supporters_884649.html|title=Surat DCP alleges threat to life from Asaram supporters|work=Zee News}}</ref> On 14 September 2014, Rambabu Kori, a follower of Asaram made an anonymous call to [[Air traffic control|ATC]] Udaipur, and the threatened to disrupt flight operations if Asaram was not released within two weeks. He was arrested from Uttar Pradesh.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/jaipur/Terror-caller-sent-to-police-remand/articleshow/42934550.cms|title=Terror caller sent to police remand|work=The Times of India}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/caller-from-up-demands-release-of-asaram-threatens-to-target-ai-flights/article1-1263977.aspx|title=Caller from UP demands release of Asaram; threatens to target AI flights |newspaper=Hindustan Times }}</ref> |
In September 2013, the father of the 16-year-old girl who accused Asaram Bapu of sexually assaulting her alleged that he had received death threats from Asaram Bapu's followers. He submitted audio clippings of these threats to the court.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ndtv.com/india-news/asarams-men-threatening-girls-family-says-lawyer-godmans-custody-extended-534715|title=Asaram's men threatening girl's family says lawyer, godman's custody extended|author=Harsha Kumari Singh|date=16 September 2013|work=NDTV.com}}</ref> In October 2013, Surat Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Shobha Bhutada also alleged that Asaram Bapu's supporters had threatened her, and asked her to stopped the probe against Asaram Bapu.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://zeenews.india.com/news/gujarat/surat-dcp-alleges-threat-to-life-from-asaram-supporters_884649.html|title=Surat DCP alleges threat to life from Asaram supporters|work=Zee News}}</ref> On 14 September 2014, Rambabu Kori, a follower of Asaram Bapu made an anonymous call to [[Air traffic control|ATC]] Udaipur, and the threatened to disrupt flight operations if Asaram Bapu was not released within two weeks. He was arrested from Uttar Pradesh.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/jaipur/Terror-caller-sent-to-police-remand/articleshow/42934550.cms|title=Terror caller sent to police remand|work=The Times of India}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/caller-from-up-demands-release-of-asaram-threatens-to-target-ai-flights/article1-1263977.aspx|title=Caller from UP demands release of Asaram; threatens to target AI flights |newspaper=Hindustan Times }}</ref> |
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From 2014–15, there have been numerous attacks against various witnesses in the Asaram case.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.oneindia.com/india/husband-of-woman-who-accused-narayan-sai-of-rape-attacked-1404435.html|title=Husband of woman who accused Narayan Sai of rape attacked|work=www.oneindia.com}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://indianexpress.com/article/cities/ahmedabad/witness-in-asaram-rape-case-attacked/|title=Witness in Asaram rape case attacked|date=12 March 2014|work=The Indian Express}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://indianexpress.com/article/cities/ahmedabad/five-held-for-attack-on-witnesses-in-rape-cases-against-asaram-sai/99/|title=Five held for attack on witnesses in rape cases against Asaram, Sai|date=19 March 2014|work=The Indian Express}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.dnaindia.com/india/report-asaram-sexual-assault-case-another-witness-attacked-in-court-premises-2060800|title=Asaram sexual assault case: Another witness attacked in court premises|work=dna}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.afternoondc.in/city-news/asaram-bapus-acolyte-arrested/article_20701|title=Asaram Bapu’s acolyte arrested |work=The Afternoon Despatch & Courier |date=23 March 2011 |author=Abhitash Singh }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.indiatvnews.com/crime/news/asaram-used-to-to-organise-tug-of-war-to-choose-girls-on-diwali-4284.html|title=Asaram used to to organise tug of war to choose girls on Diwali, says former sadhak|work=India TV News}}</ref><ref name="tehelka_taint_2013" /><ref>{{cite web|url=http://indianexpress.com/article/india/india-others/another-key-witness-in-narayan-sai-case-attacked-in-haryana/|title=Guard left, 6th Asaram case witness attacked|date=14 May 2015|work=The Indian Express}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/asaram-bapu-mahendra-chawla-narayan-sai-sexual-exploitation-case/1/438630.html|title=Asaram Bapu could be quizzed over attack on key witness |work=India Today |date=18 May 2015 |author=Manjeet Sehgal }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://indianexpress.com/article/india/india-others/one-more-witness-in-asaram-case-is-shot-at/|title=Another Asaram Bapu case witness shot at, seventh attack till now|date=11 July 2015|work=The Indian Express}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.tribuneindia.com/news/nation/asaram-case-witness-succumbs-to-injuries-hunt-on-for-assailants/105664.html|title=Asaram case: Witness succumbs to injuries; hunt on for assailants |newspaper=Tribune }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.tribuneindia.com/news/nation/witness-shot-dead/105503.html|title=Witness shot dead| newspaper= Tribune }}</ref> Amrut Prajapati, a personal aide of Asaram, who claimed to have been attacked multiple times before, was attacked and killed on 23 May 2014.<ref name="IE_rise_2013" /><ref name="open_dark_2013" /><ref>{{cite web|url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Amrut-Prajapati-witness-against-Asaram-succumbs-to-bullet-wounds/articleshow/36363482.cms|title=Amrut Prajapati, witness against Asaram, succumbs to bullet wounds|work=The Times of India}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/surat/Vanzara-protected-Asaram-like-a-wall/articleshow/24067037.cms|title='Vanzara protected Asaram like a wall'|work=The Times of India}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://indianexpress.com/article/india/crime/asaram-is-alive-because-of-my-husband-my-husband-is-dead-because-of-him/99/|title=‘Asaram is alive because of my husband, my husband is dead because of him’|date=24 June 2014|work=The Indian Express}}</ref> Another associate Akhil Gupta was shot and killed on 11 January 2015.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://indianexpress.com/article/india/india-others/police-say-not-ruling-out-asaram-link-to-well-planned-murder-of-rape-witness/99/|title=Looking at all possible angles, not ruling out Asaram link to ‘well-planned’ murder: police|date=14 January 2015|work=The Indian Express}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.dailymail.co.uk/indiahome/indianews/article-2907353/Outrage-SECOND-key-witness-Asaram-Bapu-s-rape-trial-shot-dead.html|title=Outrage as SECOND key witness in Asaram Bapu's rape trial is shot dead|work=Mail Online}}</ref> |
From 2014–15, there have been numerous attacks against various witnesses in the Asaram Bapu case.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.oneindia.com/india/husband-of-woman-who-accused-narayan-sai-of-rape-attacked-1404435.html|title=Husband of woman who accused Narayan Sai of rape attacked|work=www.oneindia.com}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://indianexpress.com/article/cities/ahmedabad/witness-in-asaram-rape-case-attacked/|title=Witness in Asaram rape case attacked|date=12 March 2014|work=The Indian Express}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://indianexpress.com/article/cities/ahmedabad/five-held-for-attack-on-witnesses-in-rape-cases-against-asaram-sai/99/|title=Five held for attack on witnesses in rape cases against Asaram, Sai|date=19 March 2014|work=The Indian Express}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.dnaindia.com/india/report-asaram-sexual-assault-case-another-witness-attacked-in-court-premises-2060800|title=Asaram sexual assault case: Another witness attacked in court premises|work=dna}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.afternoondc.in/city-news/asaram-bapus-acolyte-arrested/article_20701|title=Asaram Bapu’s acolyte arrested |work=The Afternoon Despatch & Courier |date=23 March 2011 |author=Abhitash Singh }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.indiatvnews.com/crime/news/asaram-used-to-to-organise-tug-of-war-to-choose-girls-on-diwali-4284.html|title=Asaram used to to organise tug of war to choose girls on Diwali, says former sadhak|work=India TV News}}</ref><ref name="tehelka_taint_2013" /><ref>{{cite web|url=http://indianexpress.com/article/india/india-others/another-key-witness-in-narayan-sai-case-attacked-in-haryana/|title=Guard left, 6th Asaram case witness attacked|date=14 May 2015|work=The Indian Express}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/asaram-bapu-mahendra-chawla-narayan-sai-sexual-exploitation-case/1/438630.html|title=Asaram Bapu could be quizzed over attack on key witness |work=India Today |date=18 May 2015 |author=Manjeet Sehgal }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://indianexpress.com/article/india/india-others/one-more-witness-in-asaram-case-is-shot-at/|title=Another Asaram Bapu case witness shot at, seventh attack till now|date=11 July 2015|work=The Indian Express}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.tribuneindia.com/news/nation/asaram-case-witness-succumbs-to-injuries-hunt-on-for-assailants/105664.html|title=Asaram case: Witness succumbs to injuries; hunt on for assailants |newspaper=Tribune }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.tribuneindia.com/news/nation/witness-shot-dead/105503.html|title=Witness shot dead| newspaper= Tribune }}</ref> Amrut Prajapati, a personal aide of Asaram Bapu, who claimed to have been attacked multiple times before, was attacked and killed on 23 May 2014.<ref name="IE_rise_2013" /><ref name="open_dark_2013" /><ref>{{cite web|url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Amrut-Prajapati-witness-against-Asaram-succumbs-to-bullet-wounds/articleshow/36363482.cms|title=Amrut Prajapati, witness against Asaram, succumbs to bullet wounds|work=The Times of India}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/surat/Vanzara-protected-Asaram-like-a-wall/articleshow/24067037.cms|title='Vanzara protected Asaram like a wall'|work=The Times of India}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://indianexpress.com/article/india/crime/asaram-is-alive-because-of-my-husband-my-husband-is-dead-because-of-him/99/|title=‘Asaram is alive because of my husband, my husband is dead because of him’|date=24 June 2014|work=The Indian Express}}</ref> Another associate Akhil Gupta was shot and killed on 11 January 2015.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://indianexpress.com/article/india/india-others/police-say-not-ruling-out-asaram-link-to-well-planned-murder-of-rape-witness/99/|title=Looking at all possible angles, not ruling out Asaram link to ‘well-planned’ murder: police|date=14 January 2015|work=The Indian Express}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.dailymail.co.uk/indiahome/indianews/article-2907353/Outrage-SECOND-key-witness-Asaram-Bapu-s-rape-trial-shot-dead.html|title=Outrage as SECOND key witness in Asaram Bapu's rape trial is shot dead|work=Mail Online}}</ref> |
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== References == |
== References == |
Revision as of 21:53, 12 December 2015
Asaramji Bapu | |
---|---|
Born | Asumal Sirumalani 17 April 1941 Berani, British India |
Nationality | Indian |
Spouse | Lakshmi Devi |
Children | Narayan Prem Sai (Son) Bharti Devi (Daughter) |
Parent(s) | Mehangiba (Mother) Thaumal Sirumalani (Father) |
Website | www.ashram.org |
Asumal Sirumalani (born 17 April 1941) known as Asaram Bapu and Asaram Bapu Bapu ("Father") by his followers, is a Hindu religious leader from India. In early 1970s, Asaram Bapu built his first ashram on 4 ha (10 acres) of land in Gujarat. By 2013, he had 400 major and minor ashrams in India and abroad, with numerous followers. In 2000s, several cases of land encroachment were lodged against his ashrams in multiple states. In 2008, the death of two boys at his Motera ashram led to public protests, amid allegations that black magic was being practiced at the ashram. In 2013, Asaram Bapu was arrested when a 16-year-old girl accused him of sexually assaulting her in Jodhpur. He is currently in jail.
Early life
Asaram Bapu was born on 17 April 1941,[1] in the Berani village of the Nawabshah District in British India (present-day Pakistan), to Menhgiba and Thaumal Sirumalani.[2] His birthname was Asumal Thaumal Harpalani[3][4] or Asumal Sirumalani.[5]
Following the partition of India in 1947, he and his family moved to Ahmedabad, then part of the former Bombay State in India, now Gujarat, leaving behind their immovable assets in Sindh. Subsequently, the family moved to Ahmedabad, where Asaram Bapu's father founded a coal and wood business. Asaram Bapu ran this business for a short time after his father's death.[6] At one time (1958–1959), he sold tea in front of the Magistrate's office.[5]
After his father's death, Asaram Bapu dropped out of Jai Hind High School, where he had studied till class III. According to Sant Asaram Bapuji ki Jeevan Jhanki, a biography published by his ashram, he ran away to an ashram in Bharuch at the of 15, eight days before his scheduled wedding. His family persuaded him to return, and he married Laxmi Devi. At the age of 23, he again left home and wandered in pilgrimage places in Uttarakhand and Uttar pradesh. He met the spiritual guru Lilashah in Nainital, wanting to be his disciple; but the guru sent him back home. Thirteen days later after the return, he left home for another Ashram, but was sent back again. He then visited Lilashah once again, who accepted him as a disciple in Vrindavan. Lilashah named him Asaram Bapu on 7 October 1964.[7][8]
Asaram Bapu and Laxmi Devi have two children: Narayan Sai and Bharti Devi.
Ashrams
According to Sant Asaram Bapuji ki Jeevan Jhanki, Asaram Bapu returned to Ahmedabad on 8 July 1971. On 29 January 1972, he built a hut at Motera, then a village on the banks of the Sabarmati.[7] Although his official biography doesn't mention it, Asaram Bapu also lived in Motera's Sadashiv Ashram for two years, before setting up his own hut adjacent to it.[9] He converted his hutment into an ashram in 1973, starting with 5-10 followers. In 1981 and 1992, the Indian National Congress-led state government allotted the ashram 14,515 m2 land. In 1997 and 1999, the Bharatiya Janata Party-led government allotted it 25,000 m2 for expansion.[7] Asaram Bapu had few followers in the beginning, but the numbers increased as local politicians became his devotees.[10]
By 2013, Asaram Bapu had 400 major and minor ashrams in India and abroad, with numerous followers.[10]
In 2000, Asaram Bapu's ashram was allocated about 10 acres (4 ha) of land in Bhairavi village of Navsari district by the Gujarat government. The ashram encroached on an additional 6 acres (6 ha), leading to protests in the local villages. On a complaint filed by locals, and after repeated notices were ignored, the district authorities with police assistance bulldozed the encroachments and took possession of the land.[11]
On 8 January 2010, the Gujarat government took over 67,059 m2 of land from Asaram Bapu's Ahmedabad ashram, stating that the ashram had encroached on it. The government also took over 70 acres of agricultural land bought by Asaram Bapu's family in Sabarkantha, arguging that the family had forged papers to show themselves as farmers.[7]
Outside Gujarat
In 2009, the Bihar State Religious Trust forced Asaram Bapu's ashram to vacate a piece of land in Patna, following a court case. According to the trust, Asaram Bapu and his followers had usurped the land for a temple.[7]
In 2001, the Yog Vedanta Samiti of Asaram Bapu was reportedly given permission to use the premises of the Mangalya temple in Ratlam in Madhya Pradesh for 11 days for a satsang. The samiti failed to vacate the premises after the satsang, and continue to occupy a total of 40 ha (100 acres) of land, valued at over R7 billion.[12] The land belongs to the now defunct Jayant Vitamins Limited.[12] Asaram Bapu denied any involvement, saying the reports were baseless and untenable.[13]
In 2002, Asaram Bapu's followers convinced a Rajokri-based devotee Bhagwani Devi to donate some of her property to Asaram Bapu's trust. She agreed, but Asaram Bapu's men forged the power of attorney and transferred all her land the trust.[9]
The Nashik Municipal Corporation destroyed a part of his ashram in Bhilwara for a 10-year encroaching on government-owned land.[14]
In Rajasthan, Asaram Bapu's disciples Bhanwar Lal Soni and Satya Narayan Dhoot who helped set up Asaram Bapu's Jodhpur ashram, alleged that their lands had been encroached by the ashram, and filed court cases.[7]
In May 2013, the Cuttack Municipal Corporation razed an illegally built Asaram Bapu ashram.[9]
Teachings
Spiritual discourses
Asaram Bapu has organized spiritual discourses all over India, including in cities like Ahmedabad and Patna. His devotees are shown taking diksha (initiation by a guru) from him in these satsang programs. Around 20,000 students visited his satsang in Ahmedabad in December 2001.[15][16] He preaches the existence of One Supreme Conscious and citing Bhakti yoga, Gnana yoga and Karma yoga as influences. In August 2012, when he was reportedly to deliver a lecture in a local college, his helicopter crashed while landing at Godhra. Asaram Bapu, the pilot, and the other passengers survived.[17][18]
In January 2013, while addressing a gathering of his followers, Asaram Bapu reportedly said that the victim of the 2012 Delhi gang rape was as guilty as her rapists. He is reported to have said: "The victim is as guilty as her rapists… She should have called the culprits brothers and begged before them to stop… This could have saved her dignity and life. Can one hand clap? I don't think so."[19] He is also reported to have said that he was against harsher punishments for the accused in the Delhi rape victim case, as the law could be misused. To support his point, he is said to have stated that, "Dowry law in India is the biggest example of law being misused."[20][21] This alleged blamed was widely criticized, including by politicians belonging to the two major political parties - Bharatiya Janata Party and Indian National Congress.[22] Asaram Bapu later denied giving any statement blaming the victim, and stated that his statement had been distorted and misrepresented.[23] He announced a reward of ₹ 50,000 for anyone who could prove that he blamed the victim.[24]
Parents' Worship Day
In 2011, Asaram Bapu's Yoga Vedanta Seva Samiti (YVSS), organized a Matri Pitri Poojan Divas ("mother-father worship day") on 14 February, declaring Valentine's Day as a Western cultural invasion. Over 700 parents and children participated in the programme at Rourkela, Orissa.[25]
In 2012, Asaram Bapu requested people all over India to celebrate "Parents' Worship Day", as an alternative to Valentine's Day.[26] His ashram published a booklet which described importance of worshipping one's own parents.[27] Asaram Bapu's proposal was supported by many prominent Indian politicians including President Pranab Mukherjee.[28] In 2015, the Government of the Chhattisgarh state institutionalized the practice, and directed all schools to observe Matru-Pitru Diwas ("mother-father day") every year on 14 February.[29]
Gurukul deaths case
By 2008, 40 of Asaram Bapu's ashrams had gurukuls (residential schools). The deaths of four boys at two of these Ashrams in 2008 led to allegations of black magic being practiced there.[7]
On 3 July 2008, two boys went missing from Asaram Bapu's residential school (gurukul) in Motera.[10] On 5 July 2013 - the boys' mutilated bodies were found on the banks of the Sabarmati river near the Ashram. The parents alleged that the police harassed them and refused to register a complaint against Asaram Bapu or the ashram administration.[10] The incident led to public agitations, with allegations that the boys had been sacrificed by Asaram Bapu and his followers for black magic.[30]
Two dead bodies were also found in Asaram Bapu's Chhindwara ashram, leading to protests by the local residents. On 29 July 2008, a nursery student was found dead in the ashram's toilet.[31] The police initially suspected that he had slipped on the floor, and died from injuries. On 31 July, another student 5-year old was found dead in the toilet.[32] A forensic examination revealed that the bite mark matched the teeth of a senior student. On 4 August, the senior student was arrested for the murders. According to the police, he lured the victims to the toilet with the chocolates and killed them.[33] The parents of the boys' gave a clean chit to Asaram Bapu.[34]
The Narendra Modi-led Gujarat state government set up the Justice D.K. Trivedi Commission to probe the deaths in the Motera ashram.[35] In 2009, Asaram Bapu's followers organized a rally, protesting against their alleged harassment by the Gujarat police. The protest turned violent, and over 200 supporters of Asaram Bapu were arrested after they attacked and injured 20 policemen.[36] In 2012, when Asaram Bapu was summoned by the Trivedi Commission, he issued a threat to the Narendra Modi government, saying that any further "suppression" of him and his followers would result in Modi being "thrown out".[37]
Raju Chandak, a former aide of Asaram Bapu, told the DK Trivedi Commission that black magic and suspicious financial dools took place at the ashram.[38] Mahender Chawla, secretary of Narayan Sai during 2001-2005, told the Commmission that he had seen Sai performed black magic in presence of dead bodies. As an example, he stated that Sai had recited mantras over the body of child covered with black cloth at Kalyan Ashram in Jhabua district.[39][40] Shekhar Kashmirilal Giridhar, another former follower of Asaram Bapu, claimed that he had never seen black magic being performed at the ashram.[41] In 2013, the lawyer of the deceased boys' parents admitted that there was no evidence of black magic having been practised on the two boys, but did not rule out the possibility.[30]
Arrest
In August 2013, a 16-year-old girl accused Asaram Bapu of sexually assaulting her at his ashram in Jodhpur on the pretext of exorcising her from evil spirits.[42][43] The girl's parents filed a complaint with the police in Delhi, and a medical examination confirmed that she had been assaulted.[44]
When Asaram Bapu did not appear for interrogation by 31 August,[45] Delhi police booked him under Indian Penal Code sections 342 (wrongful confinement), 376 (rape), 506 (criminal intimidation), and sections of the Juvenile Justice Act, and the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act.[46] Asaram Bapu remained inside his other ashram in Indore and avoided arrest while his devotees clashed with journalists and policemen outside.[45] Eventually, the Jodhpur police arrested him on 1 September 2013 from his ashram.[42][47]
Asaram Bapu dismissed the girl's allegations, and claimed that the accusations were a conspiracy orchestrated by Sonia Gandhi and her son Rahul Gandhi of the then-ruling Congress Party.[48][49] He had also claimed that he was impotent and not capable of sexual assault, however this was proven to be a lie as tests showed him to be capable of the act.[50] He has since been in jail and denied bail multiple times.[51]
In December 2013, Asaram Bapu's son Narayan Sai was also arrested on charges of rape, after two sisters from Surat alleged that he and his father had raped them in Asaram Bapu's ashram during the mid-2000s.[52] The elder sister accused Asaram Bapu of repeated sexual assaults during 1997-2006 at the Motera ashram. The younger sister accused Narayan Sai of sexually assaulting her during 2002-2005 at the Surat ashram. One of the sisters also alleged that Asaram Bapu's wife and daughter helped the two men exploit the girls.[53]
Threats and attacks
In September 2013, the father of the 16-year-old girl who accused Asaram Bapu of sexually assaulting her alleged that he had received death threats from Asaram Bapu's followers. He submitted audio clippings of these threats to the court.[54] In October 2013, Surat Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Shobha Bhutada also alleged that Asaram Bapu's supporters had threatened her, and asked her to stopped the probe against Asaram Bapu.[55] On 14 September 2014, Rambabu Kori, a follower of Asaram Bapu made an anonymous call to ATC Udaipur, and the threatened to disrupt flight operations if Asaram Bapu was not released within two weeks. He was arrested from Uttar Pradesh.[56][57]
From 2014–15, there have been numerous attacks against various witnesses in the Asaram Bapu case.[58][59][60][61][62][63][9][64][65][66][67][68] Amrut Prajapati, a personal aide of Asaram Bapu, who claimed to have been attacked multiple times before, was attacked and killed on 23 May 2014.[7][10][69][70][71] Another associate Akhil Gupta was shot and killed on 11 January 2015.[72][73]
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{{cite web}}
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