The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) came under fire after s featuring self-styled godman and convicted rapist Asaram Bapu were displayed within metro premises. Following the uproar, DMRC responded by assuring the removal of the controversial ads.
Public Outrage Over the Advertisements
The controversy erupted when a lawyer took to social media to call out DMRC for allowing promotional content featuring Asaram Bapu, who is serving a life sentence for rape. The lawyer criticized DMRC for displaying the ads, questioning how a convicted criminal’s image was approved for public spaces.
The viral post read:
“Shame on @OfficialDMRC. How can Delhi Metro allow a criminal convicted of rape, who is serving his sentence in jail, to have his posters displayed inside the metro? Highly shameful act by #delhimetro.”
Shame @OfficialDMRC
How can Delhi Metro allow a criminal who is convicted under RAPE CHARGES, and spending his conviction inside jail, endorse his posters, pics etc inside the Delhi metro rail?
Highly shameful act by #delhimetro pic.twitter.com/qP7ryrvmhp
— The Legal Man (@LegalTL) February 6, 2025
The post gained traction, with many expressing their anger over the incident. Photos of the s promoting “Parents Worship Day” with Asaram Bapu’s image further fueled the backlash.
DMRC’s Response
Amid mounting criticism, DMRC issued a statement acknowledging the concerns and confirming that it had directed the responsible licensee to remove the s. However, it noted that the removal process might take some time.
The official statement read:
“DMRC has issued immediate instructions to the licensee to get these s removed from the Metro premises at the earliest. The process of removal shall begin tonight, but it may take some time to be fully executed.”
DMRC has issued immediate instructions to the licensee to get these s removed from the Metro premises at the earliest. The process of removal of these ads shall be started tonight. However, it may take some time for their removal from the system.
— Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (@OfficialDMRC) February 6, 2025
Mixed Reactions from the Public
While many users condemned DMRC for allowing the s in the first place, others questioned the need for their removal.
Some users criticized DMRC’s delay in taking action, with one asking, “How can these ads be put up instantly, but their removal takes days?”
Another user defended the campaign, stating, “Promoting Parents Worship Day is a positive initiative. Why is this being criticized?”
Promoting parents worship day is a shameful act ??
— Sudhanshu Chhabra (@sudhanshu5893) February 6, 2025
Others demanded stricter oversight to prevent similar incidents, with one person pointing out, “This is not the first time objectionable ads have appeared in public spaces. There needs to be a proper approval process before they go up.”
Shameful @OfficialDMRC .
Do you support a rapist?— KP Singh (@kpsingh1966) February 7, 2025
@legalTL thanks for calling this out.@OfficialDMRC Shameful beyond words. The officers who authorised this needs to be investigated as no normal person in right senses will sign this for installation.
— Soumendu Mukherji (@SoumenduM) February 7, 2025
Why don’t you purchase the space and put your own ?
Unlike you Metro doesn’t believe in having a bias or discrimination amongst the Advertisers.— 🚩Radek 🇮🇳 Almighty 🇮🇱 (@RadekAlmighty) February 7, 2025
For money we can do anything. That should be the slogan of delhi metro… despicable. @LambaAlka @AtishiAAP
— Neeta Sharma (@NeetaSh31043935) February 7, 2025
Background on Asaram Bapu’s Conviction
Asaram Bapu was convicted in 2023 by a Gujarat court for raping a woman disciple between 2001 and 2006. The case, filed in 2013, led to his sentencing under multiple sections of the Indian Penal Code. Despite serving a life sentence, he was recently granted interim bail until March 31 on medical grounds.
The incident has sparked a broader debate on accountability in advertising approvals and the ethical responsibilities of public institutions like DMRC.