Delhi High Court Upholds Sentence for Kuldeep Sengar in Custodial Death Case
The Delhi High Court delivered a firm verdict on Monday. It refused to suspend the 10-year jail term given to expelled BJP functionary Kuldeep Singh Sengar. This sentence relates to the custodial death of the Unnao rape survivor's father.
Court Cites Grave Nature of the Crime
Justice Ravinder Dudeja observed the offence carries deep societal impact. The court highlighted the grave magnitude of the crime. It rejected the relief sought by Sengar's legal team. The team had argued for suspension based on delays in the trial.
The High Court pointed out a key fact. The delay was partly caused by multiple applications filed by Sengar's own lawyers. The court stated the purpose would be better served by hearing the appeal on its merits quickly. It listed the appeal for hearing on February 3.
Criminal Antecedents Weigh Heavily Against Sengar
The judgment noted Sengar's serious criminal record as a significant consideration. He was previously convicted for the rape of a minor in a connected case. For that crime, he received a life imprisonment sentence. The existence of these antecedents militated strongly against suspending his current sentence.
The High Court underscored the trial court's findings. Sengar was a key participant in a conspiracy. The assault on the rape survivor's father and the subsequent falsification of the FIR were part of that design. These findings form the basis of his conviction. The court stated they cannot be set aside lightly at this stage.
No Exceptional Circumstances Found for Relief
Sengar's lawyers argued that circumstances had changed since his conviction. The High Court found this argument lacking. It said no exceptional or compelling circumstance was presented to warrant suspension.
The defense also noted Sengar had already undergone approximately 7.5 years of his 10-year rigorous imprisonment term. The court acknowledged this period is relevant. However, it ruled this factor alone is not determinative. When weighed against the gravity of the crime, the threat perception, Sengar's antecedents, and the trial court's findings, it does not justify suspension.
Background of the Case
In 2020, a trial court sentenced Sengar to 10 years of rigorous imprisonment for this case. The court said no leniency could be shown. The victim was the family's sole bread earner. The court also awarded a 10-year jail term to Sengar's brother, Atul Singh Sengar, and five others for their roles in the custodial killing.
The father was arrested at Sengar's behest under the Arms Act. He died in custody on April 9, 2018, due to police brutality. Sengar had kidnapped the minor and raped her in 2017.
This development comes less than a month after the Supreme Court stayed his release in the main rape case. The Delhi High Court had suspended his sentence in that case on December 23, 2025. The Supreme Court stayed that order on December 29, 2025.
