Sexual assault case: Digvijay Singh taunts BJP for defending Asaram Bapu

Congress General Secretary Digvijay Singh on Friday took a jibe at the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) for coming to the rescue of self-styled godman Asaram Bapu, who has been booked on charges of forcing a 16-year-old girl into unnatural sex at a Jodhpur ashram a week ago.

"I was very surprised to find the BJP spokespersons supporting Asaram Bapu," he told media here.

The BJP has defended Asaram Bapu, and termed the rape charges against him as a 'Congress conspiracy'.

BJP Vice President Prabhat Jha today came to the rescue of Asaram Bapu, and said the rape charges against Asaram Bapu is a well planned Congress conspiracy

BJP leader Uma Bharti had earlier on Thursday said that the rape charge levelled by a teenage girl against Asaram Bapu could be 'politically motivated' as he had been critical of the top Congress leadership.

Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot yesterday said the rape charge against self-styled godman Asaram Bapu was being investigated by Jodhpur Police Commissioner, and added that appropriate action would be taken on the basis of 'truth and facts'.

"I have spoken to Jodhpur Police Commissioner last night and told him to investigate the case at every level, and ensure action based on truth and facts," Gehlot said.

"Jodhpur Police Commissioner and Superintendent of Police are tackling the case...let the process of probe be completed," he added.

Gehlot asked the saints preaching religion or spirituality to maintain their best character and work in their limit as any bad message hurts and shocks their followers.