Mumbai, August 20: Former Tehelka editor Tarun Tejpal has challenged the Bombay High Court’s 10-year sentence in a rape case involving a former colleague. This appeal is now before the Supreme Court.
On August 18, the Goa government also filed a petition in the Supreme Court regarding the same case. The state is seeking to increase Tejpal’s sentence, arguing that the High Court’s ruling is insufficient given the seriousness of the crime.
The case dates back to 2013 when Tejpal was accused of sexual assault and rape of his junior colleague in a lift at a luxury hotel in Goa. Following the complaint, the Goa police registered a case against him under various sections, including rape. Tejpal was arrested in November 2013.
In May 2021, the Mapusa Sessions Court acquitted Tejpal, citing lack of evidence. However, the Goa government challenged this decision in the Bombay High Court. On August 6, 2026, the High Court overturned the lower court’s ruling, finding Tejpal guilty.
The court sentenced him to 10 years of rigorous imprisonment and imposed a fine. Following this sentencing, the Goa government approached the Supreme Court on August 18, asserting that the punishment does not reflect the gravity of the offense and that a harsher penalty is warranted.
Meanwhile, Tejpal has also filed a petition in the Supreme Court, contesting both the High Court’s decision and the 10-year sentence. The Supreme Court will now hear arguments from both sides: Tejpal seeking a reduced sentence and the state government advocating for an increase.
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