Date: January 8, 2024
In a significant ruling, the Supreme Court of India has overturned the Gujarat government’s decision to release 11 convicts in the infamous Bilkis Bano gang-rape case. The apex court declared the release as null and void, asserting that it was procured through fraudulent means. This development has been widely applauded by political leaders, with Rahul Gandhi expressing his satisfaction and emphasizing the importance of upholding justice.
Rahul Gandhi, through a post on the microblogging site X, hailed the Supreme Court’s decision, labeling it a “victory of justice.” He cautioned against compromising justice for electoral gains, describing such tendencies as perilous for the democratic system. Gandhi went on to highlight Bilkis Bano’s unwavering determination as a symbol of triumph against the BJP government’s perceived arrogance.
Priyanka Gandhi Vadra also joined the chorus, praising the Supreme Court for lifting the veil on what she termed as the Bharatiya Janata Party’s anti-women policies. Vadra expressed confidence that the public’s trust in the justice system would be reinforced after this ruling. She congratulated Bilkis Bano for her courageous and persistent fight for justice.
The Supreme Court’s decision declared the May 13, 2022 judgment of another bench as a nullity. This earlier judgment had directed the Gujarat government to consider remission applications from the 11 convicts. The court found that this directive was based on fraudulent tactics, playing a fraud on the court.
Notably, the 11 convicts who were granted premature release by the Gujarat government include Bakabhai Vohania, Bipin Chandra Joshi, Kesarbhai Vohania, Govind Nai, Jaswant Nai, Mitesh Bhatt, Pradeep Mordhiya, Radheshyam Shah, Rajubhai Soni, Ramesh Chandana, and Shailesh Bhatt.
Bilkis Bano, a survivor of the brutal gang-rape during the communal riots, was only 21 years old and five months pregnant at the time. Tragically, her three-year-old daughter was among the seven family members who lost their lives during the riots.
This ruling not only marks a crucial moment in the fight for justice for Bilkis Bano but also underscores the necessity of fair and unbiased legal proceedings. As the nation reflects on this landmark decision, it serves as a reminder that justice should prevail, irrespective of external pressures or political influences.
