‘I am one of them’: Tarun Tejpal reacts to rape conviction, likens himself to Umar Khalid and Sharjeel Imam

Tarun Tejpal’s Conviction: ‘I Am One of Them’ — A Political Vendetta?

Theindiapostdaily.com – I am one of them — Former Tehelka editor-in-chief Tarun Tejpal has strongly criticized his conviction in the 2013 rape case, alleging that he had been targeted for more than a decade. Speaking to reporters immediately after the Bombay High Court delivered its verdict, Tejpal asserted that he would appeal the judgment before the Supreme Court, maintaining that the case against him was driven by revenge rather than evidence.

“They are after me with sentiment of revenge for the last 13 years,” Tejpal told the media. “I have full faith in the judiciary that there will be judges who will see the truth. We will present the evidence in public. There is so much evidence that I should have been acquitted 10 times over.”

Power Dynamics and Political Connections

The court, while delivering its judgment, underscored the unequal power dynamics between the accused and the complainant. It observed that Tejpal was the Editor-in-Chief of Tehelka at the time of the alleged offence, while the complainant was a junior journalist working under him, placing him in a position of considerable professional authority.

Following the conviction, Tejpal also drew parallels between his case and those of former student leader Umar Khalid and activist Sharjeel Imam, both of whom remain in custody in connection with the 2020 Delhi riots case. He suggested that, like them, he had been falsely implicated.

“We will surely approach the Supreme Court. They are after me due to political vendetta and work done by Tehelka. We fought the case for 7.5 years in the trial court and got acquittal. Those with them are acquitted, but they are after those who wrote against them. Umar Khalid, Sharjeel Imam are in jail for last so many years. Surendra Gadling, arrested in connection with Bhima Koregaon case, is in jail. I am also one of them. Tehelka’s reportage might have caused some political damage or harmed their vested interests.”

Legal Proceedings and Leniency Plea

Earlier in the day, while addressing the court before sentencing, the 62-year-old sought leniency, describing himself as a victim and referring to his personal circumstances. “I am 62 and I believe I am a victim. I have a wife and that’s not much else to say. All that I can say is we can go and appeal. Please be lenient for me. Rest all facts are placed on record,” Tejpal said to the court.

Senior advocate Abad Ponda, appearing for Tejpal, urged the court to take a lenient view, arguing that this was his client’s first offence and noting his age. Ponda submitted that the alleged incident dated back to 2013 and that the appeal proceedings had been pending since 2022. He further told the court that Tejpal had remained on bail throughout the proceedings without violating any conditions and that his passport had already been deposited with the authorities.

Ponda requested that the court stay the conviction order for a limited period to enable Tejpal to approach the Supreme Court against the high court’s decision. “Please consider putting a stay on this order for a few weeks. Let me be given an opportunity to approach the Supreme Court,” Ponda said on behalf of Tejpal.

What Happens Next?

The court heard the submissions made by the defence after recording the conviction. Tejpal has indicated that he will challenge the high court’s judgment before the Supreme Court. Legal experts suggest that the Supreme Court may grant a stay on the conviction while the appeal is being heard, particularly given Tejpal’s age and the fact that he has been on bail throughout the proceedings.

The case has drawn significant attention not only for its legal implications but also for the political context in which it has unfolded. Tehelka’s investigative journalism has long been associated with exposing corruption and power abuses in India, and Tejpal’s conviction has reignited debates about whether the legal system is being used to target journalists and activists who challenge established power structures.

FAQ: Tarun Tejpal Conviction

What is the nature of the case against Tarun Tejpal? The case involves an alleged rape incident that occurred in 2013, when Tejpal was the Editor-in-Chief of Tehelka magazine and the complainant was a junior journalist working under him.

What has been the legal journey so far? Tejpal was convicted by the Bombay High Court after a lengthy trial that lasted 7.5 years. He had previously secured an acquittal in the trial court, which was later overturned on appeal.

What is Tejpal’s defense strategy? Tejpal plans to appeal the conviction to the Supreme Court, arguing that the case is politically motivated and that he has been targeted for Tehelka’s reportage and his work against vested interests.

Who else has Tejpal compared his case to? Tejpal has likened his situation to that of Umar Khalid, Sharjeel Imam, and Surendra Gadling, all of whom are currently in custody in connection with various political cases.

What conditions has Tejpal been on since the alleged incident? Tejpal has remained on bail throughout the proceedings without violating any conditions, and his passport has been deposited with the authorities.