Unnao rape case: Congress questions justice in 'BJP-ruled states' after Sengar’s relief

New Delhi: The Congress party on Saturday launched a scathing attack on the decision to suspend the sentence of former BJP leader Kuldeep Singh Sengar in the Unnao rape case, terming the development a reflection of the "state of justice" under the current administration.

Congress MP Naseer Hussain did not mince words regarding the relief granted to the convict. "This is what happens in a BJP-ruled state," he told reporters. His colleague, MP Deepender Singh Hooda, warned that the decision sends a negative message globally. " If it appears that the judicial process is moving towards injustice, it sends a very negative message, not only across the nation but also to the world at large," Hooda said, emphasising that every citizen expects justice for the survivor.

The criticism extended to investigative agencies as well. Mahila Congress President Alka Lamba questioned the credibility of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), drawing parallels with the Ankita Bhandari case. "When we look at the CBI’s role in the Unnao case, it becomes difficult to decide whether the agency can still be trusted," Lamba remarked.

Spokesperson Surendra Rajput reiterated the party’s commitment to the victim, citing support from Rahul Gandhi. He affirmed that the Congress would provide legal assistance and "leave no stone unturned" to ensure the accused faces justice.

The political backlash follows the Delhi High Court's December 23 order, which suspended Sengar's life sentence and granted him bail pending his appeal. In response, the CBI has moved the Supreme Court challenging the relief granted to the expelled BJP leader. The court's decision also sparked protests on Friday, with the survivor's family and women's rights activists demonstrating outside the High Court against the move.

(Inputs from IANS)