Indian Supreme Court orders 11 murderers in gang rape case to return to jail

India’s top court has mandated that 11 individuals, previously convicted for their roles in a notorious gang rape that garnered global condemnation, must return to prison. The ruling follows their early release, causing public outrage and demands for justice.

The survivors of the horrific incident, led by Bilkis Bano, expressed profound relief at the court’s decision. Bilkis, who endured the attack during the 2002 religious riots in Gujarat, praised the judiciary for providing her and other survivors with a sense of vindication and renewed hope for equal justice.

Bilkis, now in her 40s, shared her emotional journey, having lost seven relatives, including her three-year-old daughter, during the assault.

She thanked the court for the “vindication and hope in the promise of equal justice for all.”

The attack occurred under the leadership of Hindu nationalist Narendra Modi, the current Prime Minister of India, during his tenure as the premier of Gujarat. While Modi was accused of negligence in handling the riots, he was cleared of any wrongdoing in 2012.

The 11 convicts, who were released in August 2022 based on a state government panel’s recommendation, have been ordered to return to jail within two weeks by the Supreme Court in New Delhi. The court stated that allowing them to remain free would contradict the rule of law.

The news of the court’s decision sparked celebrations in Gujarat’s Randhikpur, Bilkis’s hometown. Bilkis expressed gratitude for the support she received throughout her challenging journey, acknowledging her family, friends, and the millions who stood in solidarity.

In 2022, the release of the convicts triggered widespread anger, coinciding with India’s Independence Day celebrations.

Bilkis, who had initially been “bereft of words,” now reflects on the overwhelming support that renewed her hope.

The opposition Congress party welcomed the court’s ruling, criticizing the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) for its “callous disregard for women.”

A party spokesperson emphasized that justice should not be influenced by the victim’s religion or caste, signaling a broader societal demand for impartiality in legal proceedings.