Former Tehelka editor Tarun Tejpal received a setback after Bombay High Court convicted him in a rape case. The court overturned the lower court’s earlier decision.
The Goa bench of Bombay High Court delivered the verdict through a division bench. Justice Neela Gokhale and Justice Amit Jamsandekar announced the decision.
During the hearing, Tejpal remained present inside the courtroom. He requested leniency from the court before the punishment decision.
Meanwhile, Tejpal said he would approach the Supreme Court against the verdict.
Tejpal Requests Relief During Sentence Hearing
According to news agency PTI, Tejpal made an emotional appeal before the court. He said he is 62 years old and has two daughters.
He also mentioned his wife during the appeal. Tejpal claimed he became a victim of a political conspiracy.
Furthermore, he said his lawyers advised him to request leniency from the court.
Defence Seeks Temporary Stay For Supreme Court Appeal
Tejpal’s lawyer Abad Ponda requested the court to consider the minimum possible punishment. He also asked for relief regarding the conviction.
The lawyer requested a stay of at least 10 weeks on the sentence and conviction. This period would allow Tejpal to approach the Supreme Court.
The court was scheduled to announce the punishment decision later in the afternoon.
