High Court Reverses Trial Court Verdict
In a significant development in the 2013 sexual assault case involving former Tehelka editor Tarun Tejpal, the Goa Bench of the Bombay High Court overturned the trial court’s acquittal and held him guilty on multiple charges under the Indian Penal Code.
A Division Bench comprising Justice Dr. Neela Gokhale and Justice Amit Jamsandekar pronounced the conviction, reversing the earlier judgment delivered by a Mapusa trial court that had acquitted Tejpal by extending the benefit of doubt.
The court convicted Tejpal under Sections 376(2)(f), 376(2)(k), 354A and 354B of the IPC.
Court Hearing Arguments On Quantum Of Sentence
Following the conviction, the High Court began hearing submissions regarding the punishment to be imposed. The sentence is scheduled to be pronounced later in the day after both sides complete their arguments.
Representing the Goa government, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta pressed for the maximum punishment, arguing that the accused repeatedly ignored the survivor’s refusal and breached the trust associated with his senior position.
Addressing the court, Mehta said, “Despite the victim saying no, he kept advancing. He was a father figure and should not have indulged in such conduct. This court must send a clear message to society that when a girl says no, it means no. No means no.”
Tarun Tejpal Seeks Leniency
Before sentencing, Tarun Tejpal requested the court to show compassion while determining the punishment.
He told the bench, “I am 62 and I believe I am a victim. I have a wife, and that’s not much else to say. All that I can say is we can go and appeal. Please be lenient for me. The rest of the facts are on record.”
Case Dates Back To 2013 ThinkFest Event
The case stems from allegations made by a former junior colleague, who accused Tejpal of sexually assaulting her inside a hotel elevator during the ThinkFest event held in Goa in November 2013.
After the trial court acquitted him, the Goa government challenged the verdict before the Bombay High Court, leading to Thursday’s conviction.
The court is now expected to pronounce the quantum of punishment after considering submissions from both the prosecution and the defence.
