SC seeks response from Goa to journalist Tarun Tejpal’s appeal against conviction in 2013 rape case

The Supreme Court on Friday issued notice to the Goa government, seeking its response to an appeal by journalist Tarun Tejpal against the Bombay High Court convicting him of raping and sexually harassing a junior colleague in 2013, Bar and Bench reported.

A bench of Justices MM Sundresh and PB Varale also issued notice to Tejpal on the state’s plea seeking to increase his 10-year prison sentence to life imprisonment.

Overturning a 2021 sessions court verdict that had acquitted Tejpal, the Bombay High Court on August 6 convicted the journalist under provisions of the Indian Penal Code pertaining to rape by a person holding trust or authority, rape by a person who is in a position of control or dominance over a woman, sexual harassment and criminal force against a woman with an intent to disrobe her.

On August 20, the former editor-in-chief of Tehelka magazine moved the Supreme Court, challenging the High Court’s decision.

A bench of Justice Alok Aradhe on August 25 directed Tejpal to surrender to the authorities within two weeks. The court agreed to list Tejpal’s appeal, provided he submits his surrender certificate by September 22.

He surrendered before the Additional Sessions Court at Mapusa on September 14, after which he was sent to Central Jail at Colvale in North Goa.

During the hearing on Friday, advocate Kapil Sibal,...

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