Asaram Bapu (real name: Asumal Sirumalani Harpalani) is a self-styled "godman" and important supporter of the Hindu right, found guilty of rape of a minor in 2018 and currently serving life imprisonment. His followers included many political leaders, including BJP heavyweights L. K. Advani and former prime minister A. B. Vajpayee. He had over 350 ashrams across the country and lakhs of devotees, and is referred to as a saint by VHP leader Pravin Togadia. He had apparently provided financial help to several ministers and politicians.
Asaram Bapu is associated particularly with sexual assault: he declared that the Delhi gang rape victim "is as guilty as her rapists". His son, Narayan Sai, is also currently facing life imprisonment for rape.
References:
• Profile of Asaram Bapu on Communalism Watch.
• Story of Asaram Bapu's rise and patronage by the Hindu Right.