CJI Surya Kant Warns Against Intimidating the System, Suspends Kuldeep Singh Sengar’s Bail

In a significant judgment, the Supreme Court, led by Chief Justice of India (CJI) Surya Kant, has stayed the bail granted to former MLA Kuldeep Singh Sengar in the Unnao rape case. The court also issued strong warnings against attempts to intimidate the judicial system.

The case came to the Supreme Court after the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) challenged the Delhi High Court’s order that had temporarily suspended Sengar’s life imprisonment sentence. CJI Surya Kant’s bench, comprising Justices JK Maheshwari and George Masih, stayed the High Court’s order and directed Sengar to remain in jail. The next hearing is scheduled four weeks from now.

CJI Surya Kant’s Stern Warning
During the proceedings, the Chief Justice expressed concern over public allegations made against Delhi High Court judges who had granted Sengar bail. He cautioned against attempts to intimidate the system, saying, “Do not try to threaten the judicial system. We have some excellent judges, though mistakes can happen unknowingly.”

The bench also reminded the victim’s lawyer that the judiciary had already pronounced Sengar guilty in the initial trial. Highlighting the ongoing public debate and social media uproar against the High Court judges, the bench emphasized that court matters should be argued inside the courtroom, not on streets or online platforms.

Political Exploitation Condemned
CJI Surya Kant further expressed deep concern over attempts to politicize the matter, calling such actions “highly unfortunate.” He stated, “We are not isolated; people are trying to gain political advantage.” Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing the CBI, also defended the integrity of the judges, describing them as honest and talented, and condemned any attempts to tarnish their reputation.

The Supreme Court’s strong stance reinforces the independence of the judiciary and underscores that legal processes must be respected without public intimidation or political interference.