The Supreme Court of India on Monday stopped the release of convicted former MLA Kuldeep Singh Sengar in the 2017 Unnao rape case by staying the Delhi High Court’s order that had suspended his life sentence. The top court’s decision means Sengar will stay in jail while the legal battle continues. The move has sparked relief among the victim’s family and supporters, even as debates over justice and accountability intensify.
Supreme Court Halts High Court Bail Order
The Supreme Court stayed the operation of the December 23 Delhi High Court judgment that put Sengar’s life sentence on hold and granted him bail while his appeal is pending. A bench led by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant said the case raises “substantial questions of law”, and ordered that Sengar should not be released from custody.
The bench also issued notice to Sengar and gave him four weeks to file a response in the matter.
Why the High Court’s Order Was Controversial
The Delhi High Court had ruled that Sengar’s conviction, which included offences under the POCSO Act, should be suspended because he had served more than seven years of his sentence and was appealing the verdict. The HC also stated that his role as an elected representative did not fall under the legal definition of a “public servant” in the Indian Penal Code.
Opposition to this decision was loud, with critics saying it weakened child protection laws and undermined trust in the justice system.
Reaction of the Survivor
Expressing relief at the Supreme Court’s intervention, the survivor said she would not back down until the convict is executed. “I will not rest until he is hanged. I will keep fighting. Only then will my family and I get justice. We receive threats even today,” she said.
She also stated: “I am very happy with this decision. I have got justice from the Supreme Court. I have been raising my voice for justice from the very beginning. I do not make any allegations against any court. I have faith in all courts, but the Supreme Court has given me justice and will continue to do so.”
Supporters say her resolve symbolizes broader calls for accountability in high-profile crimes against women.
Family Voices Relief and Determination
The family welcomed the Supreme Court’s decision, saying it restored their faith in the legal system. The survivor’s sister called Sengar a “monster” and said he had destroyed their lives, not just attacked her sister.
The survivor’s mother also thanked the court and voiced her belief that those responsible for her husband’s death — part of related cases — deserve the death penalty.
Broader Legal Implications
Legal experts say the Supreme Court’s stay highlights unresolved questions about how laws like the POCSO Act are applied to elected officials. The apex court noted that accepting the High Court’s interpretation might lead to odd outcomes under the law if not clarified.
The case continues to draw public attention, not only for its legal complexities but also for debates over justice for victims of sexual violence and the functioning of the judicial system.