Goa: Tejpal acquittal had ‘deterrent effect’ on victims of sexual violence
PANAJI: Former Tehelka magazine editor Tarun Tejpal’s acquittal of rape and sexual assault charges has left an “inevitable impression on all victims of sexual violence” and has “a deterrent effect among those who are potential victims”, additional solicitor general Tushar Mehta told the Bombay high court at Goa on Tuesday.
Mehta, who appeared for the state government, said the institution of the judiciary has failed while opposing Tejpal’s plea that the appeal against his acquittal be heard in camera. “The way in which our institution has failed... I am using every word not only with sincerity but with a sense of responsibility. Our institution has failed, leaving an inevitable impression upon all victims of sexual violence or sexual assault that it has a deterrent effect among those who are potential victims... They would not come before your lordship or not come before the court of law,” he said.
In May, a fast-track court in Goa acquitted Tejpal, 57, of the charges a former colleague levelled against him during a conference in 2013.
Amit Desai, Tejpal’s lawyer, said the dignity of the institution should not be assailed at least until the case is finally decided. “I believe in the old school that our institution must be first protected and come to conclusion after hearing whether the institution of the judiciary has failed the citizens of India.” He argued for in-camera proceedings.