Supreme Court to Hear Kuldeep Sengar's Bail Plea in Unnao Custodial Death Case
The Supreme Court of India is likely to hear the bail plea of expelled Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Kuldeep Singh Sengar on Monday, February 9, in the high-profile custodial death case of the Unnao rape survivor's father. This development, reported by the Press Trust of India (PTI), marks a critical juncture in the long-running legal saga that has gripped the nation.
Background: Delhi High Court's Refusal to Suspend Sentence
This upcoming Supreme Court hearing follows a significant ruling by the Delhi High Court on January 19, which refused to suspend Sengar's 10-year jail term. The High Court cited delays in the trial as grounds for its decision, noting that these delays were partly attributable to the multiple applications filed by Sengar himself in the matter.
On March 13, 2020, a trial court sentenced Sengar to 10 years of rigorous imprisonment and imposed a fine of ₹10 lakh for his role in the custodial death. The court emphasized that "no leniency" could be shown, as the victim was the family's "sole bread earner." While Sengar was not found guilty of murder, he was convicted of culpable homicide not amounting to murder, receiving the maximum sentence under that charge.
Ongoing Legal Appeals and Previous Suspensions
Sengar's legal battles extend beyond this case. His appeals in the main Unnao rape case, where he was convicted in December 2019 and sentenced to life imprisonment, are still pending in the High Court. Additionally, his appeal in the father's death case remains unresolved.
In a twist, the Delhi High Court had temporarily suspended Sengar's sentence on December 23, 2025, pending the outcome of his appeal against the rape conviction. However, the Supreme Court intervened and stayed this suspension on December 29, 2025, reinstating his jail term until further notice.
Implications and Public Interest
The Unnao case has been a focal point for discussions on justice, political influence, and victim rights in India. Sengar's status as a former BJP leader has added a political dimension to the proceedings, drawing widespread media attention and public scrutiny.
As the Supreme Court prepares to hear his bail plea, legal experts are closely monitoring the arguments. The outcome could set precedents for how courts handle delays in trials and bail applications in sensitive criminal cases involving high-profile individuals.
The hearing on February 9 is expected to delve into the merits of Sengar's plea, considering factors such as the nature of the offense, the delay in trial, and his conduct during the legal process. Stakeholders, including the victim's family and advocacy groups, await the decision with bated breath, hoping for a resolution that upholds justice and accountability.
