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In a recent development in the Bilkis Bano gangrape case of 2002, all 11 convicted men, currently out on remission, are reportedly under ‘police watch’ and have not gone missing, contrary to some media reports.
The Supreme Court, on January 8, declared the remission granted to the 11 convicts null and void and directed them to surrender within two weeks. Justices BV Nagarathna and Ujjal Bhuyan, in their bench ruling, emphasized that Gujarat had overstepped its authority by granting remission instead of Maharashtra, where the original trial took place. The court also annulled a 2022 judgment by another bench, terming it as obtained through “playing fraud” on the court, which had directed Gujarat to consider the remission applications of the 11 convicts.
Contrary to recent media reports claiming that most of the convicts were missing and their families were unaware of their whereabouts, it has now been clarified that all 11 convicts are under ‘police watch.’ This revelation dispels concerns about the whereabouts of the convicted individuals and reaffirms that they are being closely monitored.
The Bilkis Bano gangrape case has been a prolonged legal battle, and the recent Supreme Court ruling reflects the court’s commitment to ensuring justice in a case that had witnessed a controversial remission process. The court’s observation that Gujarat had overstepped its jurisdiction and the annulment of the previous judgment underscore the significance of adhering to legal procedures in matters of remission and parole.
As the 11 convicts are expected to surrender within the specified two-week period, this development sheds light on the complexities surrounding the legal aspects of the case and reaffirms the court’s determination to address any irregularities. The Bilkis Bano case remains a poignant reminder of the challenges in securing justice and holding accountable those responsible for heinous crimes.
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