Supreme Court Grants Unnao Rape Survivor Right to Join CBI Appeal Against Sengar

The Supreme Court has allowed the Unnao rape survivor to join the CBI's appeal against the suspension of Kuldeep Sengar's life sentence. The court highlighted the victim's right to be heard while confirming procedural details for further legal review of the case.

In a significant decision, the Supreme Court on Monday permitted the Unnao rape survivor to join the ongoing CBI petition. This appeal challenges the suspension of the life sentence handed to former BJP MLA Kuldeep Singh Sengar. Chief Justice Surya Kant and Justice Joymalya Bagchi stressed the victim's entitlement to participate in the proceedings that affect her sociological and legal interests.

The lower bench, however, turned down a related intervention plea claiming threats to a family member's life, suggesting a separate independent legal approach. Despite a hiatus in hearing the CBI's request due to Solicitor General Tushar Mehta's unavailability, the judiciary hinted at an early court session.

This legal battle stretches back to December 29 last year when the top court reacted against the Delhi High Court's suspension of Sengar's sentence. The CBI has been at the forefront, maintaining that the high court erred in considering Sengar as not fitting the 'public servant' definition required for his POCSO conviction.

(With inputs from agencies.)