Used to respect Asaram, will burn his books now: Victim's family

The family of the 23-year-old girl, who died after being brutally gang-raped in Delhi, has taken strong exception to Asaram Bapu's controversial statement on the girl, terming it as "illogical".

"It is an absolutely illogical statement and least expected from him," the family told media personnel.

"We had immense respect for Asaram Bapu and also had many books related to him. As soon as we get back to Delhi, we will put them on fire," the brother of the deceased said.

He added that the statement was "very cheap and downgrade."

"Godman or saints can never say anything of this sort. It only exposes his mentality," the family said.

Asaram Bapu had on Monday said that the rape and murder would not have happened if the victim had called the rapist and killers her 'brothers'.

Referring to the growing incidents of rape, the family said that strict laws were necessary to check crimes against women and change the attitude of the people.

The father of the paramedical student said that the family had great hopes that she would recover when she was taken to Singapore for treatment.

Meanwhile, the district administration is preparing for the terahi ritual of the girl, on January 12.

Assistant Superintendent of Police Ashok Tripathi said that though there is no confirmation about VVIPs attending the function, the district magistrate has started preparations in case any of them decided to attend it.

A helipad is also being prepared in the village.