Bilkis Bano case: SC cancels Gujarat govt’s order allowing early release of 11 rapists-murders

News Network

January 8, 2024

In a small relief for justice lovers in India, the Supreme Court on January 8 cancelled the Gujarat government's decision to release the 11 convicts who raped Bilkis Bano and killed her family during the 2002 Gujarat riots.

The Gujarat government was not competent to release the men, the Supreme Court said, adding that the decision was up to the Maharashtra government.

"The exemption order lacks competence," the Supreme Court said.

The convicts were released by the Gujarat government on Independence Day in 2022 on the basis of an obsolete law, which triggered a wave of condemnation and outrage from the opposition, activists and the civil society.

The convicts were given a hero's welcome and were seen sharing stage with a BJP MP and MLA. One of the convicts, Radheshaym Shah, had even started practicing law, which was brought to the attention of the Supreme Court.

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Will end Karnataka leadership confusion after talks with top leaders: Kharge

News Network

November 27,2025

Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge on Thursday announced that he will convene a high-level meeting in New Delhi with senior leaders — including Rahul Gandhi, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar — to resolve the escalating leadership turmoil in Karnataka and “put an end to the confusion.”

Kharge said the discussions would focus on the way forward for the ruling party, as rumours of a possible leadership change continue to swirl. The speculation has intensified after the Congress government crossed the halfway mark of its five-year term on November 20, reviving talk of an alleged 2023 “power-sharing agreement” between Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar.

“After reaching Delhi, I will call three or four important leaders and hold discussions. Once we talk, we will decide how to move ahead and end this confusion,” Kharge told reporters in Bengaluru, according to PTI.

When asked specifically about calling Siddaramaiah and Shivakumar to Delhi, he responded: “Certainly, we should call them. We will discuss with them and settle the issue.”

He confirmed that Rahul Gandhi, the Chief Minister, the Deputy Chief Minister and other senior members would be part of the deliberations. “After discussing with everyone, a decision will be made,” he said.

Meanwhile, Siddaramaiah held a separate strategy meeting at his Bengaluru residence with ministers and leaders seen as his close confidants, including G. Parameshwara, Satish Jarkiholi, H.C. Mahadevappa, K. Venkatesh and K.N. Rajanna.
Signalling calm, the Chief Minister told reporters, “Will go to Delhi if the high command calls.”

Shivakumar echoed a similar stance, saying he too would head to the national capital if summoned by the party leadership.

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