Aishwarya Rathore –
Published on August 10, 2021 at 16:49 IST
Journalist Tarun Tejpal has requested that all proceedings in the Bombay High Court at Goa against his acquittal in 2013 Rape Case be held in-camera and raised objections on the maintainability of the Goa Government’s appeal.
Solicitor General Tushar Mehta submitted that he usually wouldn’t be opposed to an in-camera prayer, but in this case, the institution has failed to impress upon potential victims of sexual violence that it would have a deterrent effect.
Tushar Mehta stated, “The country has the right to know how this Institution (Judiciary) has dealt with the girl who came before the Court with the complaint, specific allegations and corroborative evidence.”
Mehta further added, “In a lighter vein, there are two ways clothes are removed, first is when accused removes clothes of the victim, and the second is when his clothes are removed in Court of law.”
Senior Advocate Amit Desai appearing for Tejpal, however argued that it was unfair to point fingers at the institution, only because the Order was not in favour of the State.
Desai stated, “Mr. Mehta appears for a bunch of Institutions across the length and breadth of the Country. The words that ‘Institution of Judiciary has failed’ have to be used carefully. Protection of the institution is foremost.”
The Court granted time to Mehta to peruse the application for in-camera hearing and respond at the next hearing date.
At this point, both counsel requested that this matter be heard by video conference so that they can continue to appear in front of the Bench.
The Bench, on the other hand, stated that physical hearings will begin from the next week and ordered the parties to approach the Chief Justice with a joint request for a virtual hearing.
The matter will be heard next on August 31, 2021.
On May 21, the Trial Court acquitted Tejpal of all charges brought against him by the State of Goa.
The State then appealed to the Bombay High Court, challenging the acquittal and seeking a retrial.
Also Read: Who is Tarun Tejpal, Tehelka and What are the Allegations against him?