Goa govt moves Supreme Court seeking tougher sentence for Tarun Tejpal in 2013 rape case: Report
Tarun Tejpal had earlier called his conviction "wrong", saying that he will appeal against the order in the Supreme Court.
The government of Goa has petitioned the Supreme Court to increase former Tehelka editor Tarun Tejpal's 10-year jail sentence in the 2013 rape case to life imprisonment, arguing that the current sentence imposed by the Bombay High Court was "grossly disproportionate" to the gravity of the crimes. Tejpal is accused of committing aggravated rape against a junior colleague, and the government contends that the minimum sentence does not adequately reflect the severity of the offenses.
They argue that Tejpal's position as the victim's employer, mentor, and friend warrants a harsher punishment. The state also questions the concurrent sentencing, asserting that the two assaults took place on successive days and should not be treated as a single criminal act. The government emphasizes that the passage of time should not be considered a mitigating factor, particularly given the delay in justice.
They also criticize the trial court for its treatment of the victim, including invasive cross-examination and adverse findings on her character, which they say demonstrate a perverse appreciation of evidence and a violation of law.
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