WorldNEW DELHI (Reuters) - An Indian court jailed a self-styled religious preacher for life on Wednesday for raping a teenage girl, the latest sexual abuse case against a so-called “godman”. The case highlights the Indian heartland’s fascination with spiritual gurus, who wield immense influence for their ability to mobilize millions of adherents, amass untaxed funds and find favor with politicians. The 77-year-old, who has more than 400 ashrams around the world according to his website, had been denied bail a dozen times. “It goes on to show that even if you are a ‘godman’, if you commit a crime, our judiciary will get you,” Thakur said. FILE PHOTO: Police escort spiritual leader Asaram Bapu (C) outside an airport after his arrest in Jodhpur, in the desert state of Rajasthan, India, September 1, 2013.

Source: Sunday Times April 25, 2018 11:03 UTC