In a landmark decision on Monday, India’s highest court ruled that 11 individuals convicted of a heinous gang rape, which had sparked global outrage, must promptly return to incarceration. The convicts had been prematurely released in August 2022, following a recommendation by a state government panel. However, the Supreme Court in New Delhi has mandated their return to jail within two weeks, rejecting their plea for continued liberty.
The case revolves around Bilkis Bano and her two surviving children, the lone survivors of a brutal attack on a group of Muslims by a Hindu mob during the 2002 communal riots in Gujarat. Pregnant at the time, Bilkis lost seven relatives, including her three-year-old daughter, in the violent incident that occurred under the leadership of the then-premier of Gujarat, Narendra Modi, now the Prime Minister of India.
Despite accusations of indifference to the riots, Modi was cleared of any wrongdoing in 2012. The 11 convicts, initially released to a heroes’ welcome in 2022, will now face a return to jail as per the Supreme Court’s ruling.
The court emphasized that allowing the convicts to remain free would be contrary to the rule of law. The release had triggered public outrage, coinciding with India’s Independence Day celebrations and drawing criticism for its apparent insensitivity to the gravity of the crime.
Bilkis Bano, whose trust in the system was shattered by the release, expressed her distress at that time, stating, “The release of these convicts has taken from me my peace and shaken my faith in justice.” The opposition Congress party welcomed the court’s decision, denouncing the ruling party’s alleged disregard for women’s rights.
“This ruling exposes the BJP’s callous disregard for women,” declared Congress party spokesman Pawan Khera. He emphasized that justice should not be contingent on the victim or perpetrator’s religion or caste, urging a more equitable and unbiased administration of justice in India.
