SC give one more year for Tejpal's trial in sexual assault case

The Supreme Court on Friday gave one more year time to the Goa judge holding trial of Tehelka's founding editor Tarun Tejpal for allegedly sexual assaulting his junior woman colleague in a five star hotel in Goa in November 2013.

A bench of Chief Justice H.L.Dattu and Justice Arun Mishra granted one more year time on a letter from the trial court judge - district judge 2 and additional sessions judge, Mapusa - seeking extension of time.

While granting bail to Tejpal July 1, 2014, the apex court had directed the lower court to complete the trial in eight month time and asked Tejpal to remain present on all days and not seek unnecessary adjournments.

"Speedy trial is must. With 153 witnesses speedy trial is difficult. It will take three years," said the court while rejecting Goa's opposition to the grant of bail to Tejpal.

Tejpal was accused of sexually assaulting a junior woman colleague in a five hotel in November 7-8, 2013 during a Thinkfest event organised by Tehelka.

He was charged Feb 18, 2014, with rape, sexual harassment and outraging the modesty of his colleague.