Lekha G –
The Goa Government has appealed against the acquittal of former editor-in-chief of Tehelka Tarun Tejpal charged with sexual assault of his then colleague in Goa hotel in 2013.
The state government pushed for its early hearing stating that “We owe it to our girls” and said the acquittal was erroneous in law and unsustainable.
Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing the state government pointed out to the Bench that Trial Court had dealt the case in such a manner that made it seem like “Any person who is a victim of sexual assault has to exhibit her trauma” otherwise she would not be believed.
He further accused the Trial Court judgment of lacking sensitivity towards the victim and legal competence.
Justice S C Gupte directed the Sessions Court to expunge from its judgment any references that may reveal the identity of the victim including her email address and names of her family members. He also further approved Mr. Mehta’s request seeking court’s leave to amend the grounds of appeal and fixed the next hearing to June 2.
Tejpal was acquitted of all charges of rape and sexual harassment on May 21.