In a significant development, the Supreme Court of India has provided interim relief to former Tamil Nadu Special DGP Rajesh Das, exempting him from surrendering in connection with a sexual harassment case.
A trial court convicted Das for sexually harassing a woman Superintendent of Police, leading to this decision.
A bench comprising Justices Bela M Trivedi and Pankaj Mithal issued a notice to the Tamil Nadu government, seeking its response by July 12.
The bench stated, “In the meantime, the petitioner shall be exempted from surrendering till the next date of hearing.”
In February 2021, Das and the female officer arranged security for the then Chief Minister, Edappadi K. Palaniswami, during an election campaign.
The prosecution alleged that during this period, Das sexually harassed the woman officer.
In June 2023, a trial court in Villupuram found Das guilty of the charges.
This conviction was upheld by the Villupuram Principal Sessions Court in February 2024.
Subsequently, Das sought relief from the Madras High Court, filing pleas to suspend his sentence and exempt him from surrendering.
However, the High Court denied his requests, leading him to approach the Supreme Court.
On April 23, the Madras High Court refused to grant Das exemption from surrendering, prompting him to challenge the decision in the Supreme Court.
The apex court’s interim relief now provides Das temporary respite as the case continues to unfold.
This case has garnered significant attention, highlighting issues of accountability and justice within the higher echelons of law enforcement.
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