In a significant ruling, the Delhi High Court on Monday dismissed the bail application of former Unnao MLA Kuldeep Singh Sengar, who is serving a sentence in the high-profile Unnao rape case. This decision ensures that Sengar, convicted in the case linked to the custodial death of the victim’s father, will remain behind bars for the foreseeable future.
The court meticulously reviewed Sengar’s criminal history during the hearing, deeming it unfit to grant him relief at this stage. Justices emphasized the gravity of the offenses, including the kidnapping and rape of a minor, for which Sengar was sentenced to rigorous imprisonment alongside a hefty fine. Despite having served approximately 7.5 years of his 10-year term, the bench noted that delays in his appeal process were partly attributable to multiple interim petitions filed by his defense.
Background of the case reveals a saga of tragedy and public outrage. The Unnao incident, which erupted in 2017, involved allegations against the then-BJP legislator by a minor girl. Her father’s mysterious death in police custody further intensified scrutiny. In December 2019, a trial court convicted Sengar, sparking nationwide protests against influential perpetrators of sexual violence.
Sengar’s legal battles continued post-conviction. He was briefly granted bail by the Delhi High Court on December 23 last year, but the CBI challenged it in the Supreme Court, leading to a stay. Now, with the latest rejection, his appeal against conviction awaits expedited hearing, as suggested by the high court for his own benefit.
This verdict underscores the judiciary’s firm stance on crimes against women, particularly when powerful figures are involved. As the case progresses, it remains a poignant reminder of the long fight for justice in the Unnao saga.