Asaram Bapu is a real saint, is innocent: VHP leader Pravin Togadia

VHP leader Pravin Togadia today supported controversial self-styled godman Asaram Bapu, facing allegations of raping a minor girl, saying he was a genuine saint.

"Asaram Bapu is a real saint, he is innocent, but it has become a tradition in India to defame the religious leaders," the VHP's international general secretary said while flagging off a procession to mark Lord Krishna's birthday here.

Jodhpur Police in Rajasthan is currently probing the allegations of sexual assault levelled by a 16-year-old girl against Asaram.

Commenting on Uttar Pradesh government's ban on VHP's 'Chaurasi-koshi yatra', Togadia said it proved that Akhilesh Yadav government was "anti-Hindu".

Talking about Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi, he said VHP had no objection if he became the Prime Minister.