Delhi HC Seeks CBI Reply on Kuldeep Sengar’s Plea in Custodial Death Case
The Delhi High Court on Tuesday sought the Central Bureau of Investigation’s (CBI) response to former BJP leader Kuldeep Singh Sengar’s plea to suspend his 10-year jail term on medical grounds. Sengar, who was convicted in the custodial death case of the Unnao rape victim’s father, cited deteriorating health as the reason for his request.
Background of the Case
Sengar was convicted in 2019 for his role in the 2018 custodial death of the Unnao rape victim’s father, who was brutally assaulted and falsely imprisoned under the Arms Act. The father died due to police brutality while in custody.
The trial court had sentenced Sengar and others to 10 years of rigorous imprisonment, emphasizing the irreparable loss caused to the victim’s family by the death of their sole breadwinner. However, the court found the accused guilty of culpable homicide not amounting to murder under Section 304 of the IPC, rather than murder.
Sengar’s Medical Plea
Sengar’s counsel argued before the Delhi High Court that his health had deteriorated significantly, constituting a medical emergency. It was also highlighted that his appeal against the conviction has not been heard for a prolonged period, and he has already served eight of the ten years of his sentence.
The court, presided over by Justice Manoj Kumar Ohri, issued a notice limited to medical grounds and sought reports from the jail authorities regarding Sengar’s health. The plea is set for further hearing on January 13, 2025.
Related Convictions and Appeals
Kuldeep Sengar is already serving a life sentence for raping the minor daughter of the deceased. The trial court in 2019 convicted him of rape and sentenced him to life imprisonment. His appeal challenging this conviction remains pending in the Delhi High Court.
In addition to Sengar, his brother Atul Singh Sengar and five others were also convicted in the custodial death case and received the same 10-year sentence.
Supreme Court’s Intervention
The custodial death case and the rape case were transferred from Uttar Pradesh to Delhi on the Supreme Court’s orders to ensure a fair trial. The apex court had intervened following significant public outcry and concerns over the handling of the case by local authorities.
Conclusion
The Delhi High Court’s decision to review Sengar’s plea on medical grounds has reignited discussions around justice for the Unnao rape victim and her family. As the case moves forward, it continues to serve as a grim reminder of the need for systemic reforms to protect vulnerable communities and uphold justice.
