Tehelka rape charge: Tarun Tejpal sent to 12-day judicial custody

The defence lawyer had pleaded in court to lodge him in a separate cell in view of his security. Tejpal’s lawyer argued that he was provided security for the nature of his work. The court will decide on the matter on December 13.

A woman journalist,employed with Tehelka,had accused Tejpal of sexually assaulting her twice on November 7 and 8 in Goa. Tejpal has been booked under Section 354A (outraging the modesty of a woman) and 376 (2)(K) (custodial rape) of IPC.

The Goa Crime Branch also booked him under additional charges of wrongful restraint and wrongful confinement,covered by Sections 341 and 342 of the IPC.

Tejpal has also been booked under Section 376 (2) (f) of The Criminal Law ( Amendment) Act,applicable in circumstances where the rape has been committed by a person “being a relative,guardian,or teacher or in a position of trust” towards the victim.

Tejpal has been in custody of Goa Police and is being interrogated. The victim has already told police in her statement that Tejpal had lured her into the elevator on two occasions against her wish. The CCTV footage has been sourced from outside the lift.