Asaram undergoes court-mandated medical check-up at Ahmedabad Civil Hospital

Self-styled godman and rape convict Asaram was brought under heavy security to Ahmedabad Civil Hospital on Monday morning for a comprehensive medical check-up following directions from a Jodhpur court.

According to Civil Hospital Superintendent Dr Rakesh Joshi, Asaram was brought to the hospital around 10.30 am. “We received a court letter from Jodhpur directing us to conduct his medical examination. Specialists from cardiology, neurology, medicine, nephrology, gastroenterology and urology were called in to give their opinions,” Dr Joshi said.

As part of the 4-hour-long procedure, Asaram underwent an echocardiogram, cardiogram, X-ray and ultrasound. A medical board will prepare a detailed report once all test results are compiled.

Allegations of ‘VVIP treatment’

Soon after his arrival, questions were raised over alleged “special arrangements” for Asaram, including the use of a new wheelchair, fresh bedsheets and restricted entry for hospital staff during his stay. Sources claimed hospital staff were kept waiting outside the gate for nearly two hours.

Dr Joshi, however, denied that any special favours were extended. “No VIP facilities were given to him. Since a large crowd had gathered outside, we had to shut the gates for security reasons. We had already informed the police and asked for additional deployment,” he said.

The superintendent also clarified that no relative or associate of Asaram was present during the tests.

Security arrangements

Asaram, who is serving a life sentence at Jodhpur jail in a 2013 rape case, was escorted by police and personal security officers during his hospital visit. The police maintained a cordon inside the hospital premises while the tests were carried out.

The medical board’s findings will now be submitted to the Jodhpur court, which will decide on further directives.