Tehelka founder Tarun Tejpal sentenced to 10 years in 2013 sexual assault case
THE Bombay High Court on Thursday (August 6, 2026) convicted former Tehelka editor Tarun Tejpal in the 2013 sexual assault case, overturning his acquittal by a Goa trial court and sentencing him to 10 years of rigorous imprisonment.
A Division Bench comprising Justice Neela Gokhale and Justice Amit Jamsandekar delivered the verdict after hearing arguments on the quantum of sentence. Solicitor-General Tushar Mehta, appearing for the prosecution, sought the maximum punishment, arguing that Tejpal had shown "no remorse whatsoever" and that the court should send a strong message that "no means no," irrespective of the victim's age or status.
Senior advocate Abad Ponda, representing Tejpal, pleaded for leniency, pointing out that the 62-year-old had no previous criminal record, had complied with all bail conditions, and had remained available to the court throughout the proceedings. He requested a stay of the conviction and eight weeks' time for Tejpal to surrender, saying his client intended to challenge the High Court verdict before the Supreme Court.
Addressing the Bench with the court's permission, Tejpal said he had spent the past 13 years trying to establish the truth and appealed for leniency, citing his family responsibilities. He also reiterated his intention to appeal before the Supreme Court.
The Bench noted the defence's submissions that this was Tejpal's first offence and that he had cooperated with the judicial process. The prosecution, however, argued that the accused had abused a position of trust and should be taken into custody immediately.
The High Court convicted Tejpal under Sections 376(2)(f), 376(2)(k), 354A and 354B of the Indian Penal Code. It awarded 10 years of rigorous imprisonment under Section 376(2)(k), along with fines under various provisions, including ₹5 lakh each under Sections 376(2)(f) and 376(2)(k). Additional prison terms and fines were imposed under Sections 354, 354A and 354B.
