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Supreme Court Rejects Sengar's Bail Appeal, Sends Case to Delhi High Court

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  Published in Business and Finance on Monday, February 9th 2026 at 4:24 GMT by moneycontrol.com
      Locales: Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, INDIA

New Delhi, February 9th, 2026 - Kuldeep Sengar, the former MLA convicted in the harrowing 2017 Unnao rape case, continues to face legal hurdles as the Supreme Court today refused to hear his latest bail application. The court directed Sengar to approach the Delhi High Court, effectively sending his plea back to the lower court for reconsideration.

The decision, delivered on Monday, marks the latest development in a case that captivated - and horrified - the nation nearly a decade ago. Sengar, currently incarcerated in Tihar Jail, had appealed the Delhi High Court's previous denial of bail. His legal team argued for his release, but the Supreme Court deemed the matter unsuitable for its immediate consideration, citing the ongoing proceedings at the High Court level.

A Timeline of the Unnao Case and Sengar's Conviction

The Unnao case first came to light in 2017 when a minor girl alleged she was raped by Sengar and his associates. The allegations sparked widespread outrage, particularly due to accusations of political interference and attempts to suppress the truth. The victim's family also claimed they faced intimidation and threats following the incident.

The initial trial court proceedings were mired in controversy. While Sengar was initially acquitted of the core rape charge, he was convicted under other sections of the Indian Penal Code. This outcome drew criticism from activists and legal experts, who argued the acquittal was insufficient given the gravity of the allegations and the evidence presented. The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), which took over the investigation, appealed the initial verdict.

In 2020, after further investigation and legal battles, the Delhi High Court overturned the trial court's decision and convicted Sengar under the Prevention of Sexual Offences (POSCO) Act, finally acknowledging the severity of his crimes. This landmark ruling was hailed as a victory for the victim and a significant step towards justice.

CBI Opposition and Concerns of Witness Tampering

The CBI has consistently opposed Sengar's bail pleas, raising serious concerns about his potential to influence witnesses. As a former MLA with considerable local influence, the agency argued that Sengar's release could jeopardize the safety of individuals who testified against him and potentially obstruct the ongoing pursuit of justice in related cases.

"The CBI's primary argument remains the potential for witness tampering," explains legal analyst Priya Sharma. "Sengar's political connections and past behaviour raise legitimate fears that he could use his influence to intimidate or coerce witnesses, particularly those who may still be vulnerable. The court has to consider the risk to the integrity of the judicial process."

The Delhi High Court's Role and Future Prospects

The Delhi High Court now faces the task of reviewing Sengar's bail application, taking into account the Supreme Court's decision and the CBI's objections. The High Court will likely scrutinize the evidence presented, assess the risk of witness tampering, and determine whether Sengar poses a flight risk.

The High Court's decision will be crucial. Granting bail to Sengar would undoubtedly reignite public outrage and raise questions about the justice system's commitment to protecting vulnerable victims. Denying bail, however, could prolong Sengar's imprisonment and potentially lead to further legal challenges.

Broader Implications for Sexual Assault Cases

The Unnao case has become a symbol of the challenges faced by survivors of sexual assault in India, particularly those who come up against powerful individuals. The lengthy legal battles, the initial setbacks, and the allegations of political interference highlight the systemic obstacles that can hinder access to justice. The case has spurred calls for reforms in the criminal justice system, including measures to expedite trials, protect witnesses, and ensure accountability for perpetrators.

"The Unnao case underscores the need for a more robust and victim-centric approach to handling sexual assault cases," says activist Kavita Nair. "We need to empower survivors, provide them with adequate support, and ensure that perpetrators are brought to justice swiftly and effectively. The system needs to prioritize the safety and well-being of victims above all else."

The coming weeks will be critical as the Delhi High Court deliberates on Sengar's fate. The outcome will not only determine the immediate future of the convicted MLA but also send a powerful message about the justice system's commitment to addressing sexual violence and protecting the rights of vulnerable individuals.