In a significant legal move, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has approached the Supreme Court of India to challenge the bail granted to former Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MLA Kuldeep Singh Sengar in the infamous 2019 Unnao rape case. The investigative agency filed a Special Leave Petition (SLP) in the apex court, contesting the relief given to the convicted politician.
Background of the Case and Public Outcry
The bail order for Sengar, which was passed earlier, had sparked widespread criticism and public anger. The rape survivor, along with her mother and several activists, staged a protest at India Gate in the national capital, demanding justice. Simultaneously, another demonstration was held in front of the Delhi High Court, highlighting the deep-seated public discontent with the judicial decision.
The 2019 case, which sent shockwaves across the nation, involved serious allegations against the then-powerful MLA from Unnao. The survivor had accused Sengar of sexual assault, leading to a high-profile investigation and trial. His subsequent conviction was seen as a landmark moment in cases involving influential figures.
CBI's Legal Challenge and Next Steps
By filing the Special Leave Petition, the CBI has formally expressed its disagreement with the bail granted to Kuldeep Sengar. An SLP is a petition filed in the Supreme Court seeking special permission to appeal against an order from a lower court, which in this instance is the bail order. This action underscores the agency's stance on the seriousness of the crime and its commitment to pursuing the case rigorously.
The development, reported on 26 December 2025, marks a new chapter in the long-drawn legal battle. It indicates that the legal proceedings are far from over and that the central agency is seeking a review of the bail decision by the highest judicial authority in the country.
Implications and the Road Ahead
This move by the CBI is likely to reignite public discourse on the accessibility of justice and the treatment of survivors in cases of sexual violence, especially those involving individuals with political clout. The protests at India Gate and the Delhi High Court exemplified the civil society's vigilant role in such matters.
All eyes are now on the Supreme Court, which will examine the CBI's petition. The apex court's decision on whether to admit the SLP and subsequently hear the appeal against the bail will be crucial. It will not only determine Sengar's immediate liberty but also send a strong message regarding the judicial system's approach to heinous crimes and the appeals process.
The Unnao rape case remains a poignant reminder of the struggles for justice. The CBI's latest action demonstrates the continuing efforts within the legal framework to address what it perceives as a procedural misstep, ensuring that the case remains under intense judicial scrutiny.
