The Unnao rape case is back in focus as the Supreme Court is set to hear the CBI’s challenge against the suspension of former BJP MLA Kuldeep Singh Sengar’s life sentence. The hearing is scheduled for Monday and comes amid fresh protests by women activists demanding justice for the survivor.
The case has once again sparked nationwide debate over justice delivery, survivor safety, and accountability of powerful individuals accused of serious crimes.
Why is the Supreme Court Hearing Important?
The Central Bureau of Investigation has approached the Supreme Court after the Delhi High Court suspended Kuldeep Sengar’s life sentence on December 23. The high court cited the fact that Sengar has already spent over seven years in prison while his appeal remains pending.
A three-judge vacation bench, headed by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant and comprising Justices J.K. Maheshwari and Augustine George Masih, is expected to hear the matter.
The CBI argues that suspending the sentence in such a serious crime sends the wrong signal and undermines public trust in the justice system.
What the Survivor Said Ahead of the Hearing?
The Unnao rape survivor has expressed hope that the apex court will step in to deliver justice. Speaking ahead of the hearing, she said:
“I have faith in the Supreme Court that it will give me justice. I am raising the voice of every woman. Had the CBI taken action earlier, I would have got justice. His bail would have been rejected because he raped me. My father was killed. My family members were killed. The security of my family members and witnesses was removed. My husband was fired from his job. My children are unsafe at home.”
Her statement reflects long-standing concerns about survivor protection and systemic failures.
What Led to Nationwide Outrage in the Unnao Case?
The case dates back to 2017, when the survivor, then a minor, accused Kuldeep Singh Sengar of raping her at his residence. For months, authorities took no action. In April 2018, the survivor attempted self-immolation outside the Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister’s residence, bringing national attention to the case.
Soon after, her father died in judicial custody. The family alleged that he was assaulted by Sengar’s supporters in jail. The tragedy deepened public anger.
In July 2019, the survivor was critically injured in a road accident when a truck rammed into her car. Two of her aunts were killed. Investigators later said the crash was a planned attempt to eliminate her.
Why Was the Trial Shifted Out of Uttar Pradesh?
Given the gravity of events and threats to the survivor, the Supreme Court transferred the trial to Delhi. In December 2019, a Delhi court convicted Sengar and sentenced him to life imprisonment for rape.
He is also serving a separate 10-year sentence in the custodial death case of the survivor’s father, which means he remains in jail despite the suspension of the rape sentence.
Protests at Jantar Mantar Add Pressure
Women activists gathered at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar ahead of the Supreme Court hearing. They demanded strict punishment and raised concerns about how influential convicts continue to get relief through legal delays.
What Happens Next?
The Supreme Court’s decision on Monday could shape the future course of the case. It may decide whether Sengar’s sentence suspension stands or is overturned.
Beyond legal outcomes, the case remains a stark reminder of the challenges survivors face in seeking justice. The verdict will be closely watched across the country.