Panaji: Investigative journalist and Tehelka magazine founder Tarun Tejpal, who was convicted by the Bombay High Court’s Goa bench in the 2013 sexual assault case involving a former junior colleague, told the court that he considers himself “a victim” and pleaded for leniency during the sentencing hearing.

The Goa bench of the Bombay High Court on Thursday overturned Tejpal’s 2021 acquittal by a Goa Sessions Court, allowing the Goa government’s appeal against the earlier verdict.

Addressing the court, Tejpal said, “I am 62 and I believe I am a victim. I have a wife and that’s not much else to say. All that I can say is we can go and appeal. Please be lenient for me. Rest all facts are placed on record.”

The case stems from allegations made by a former Tehelka employee, whose identity has been withheld in accordance with the law. She alleged that Tejpal sexually assaulted her twice inside a hotel elevator during the magazine’s ThinkFest event in Goa on November 7 and 8, 2013. Tejpal was arrested on November 30, 2013.

Following the incident, Tejpal initially expressed remorse, describing it as “an awful misreading of the situation.” However, after criminal charges were filed, he denied the allegations and claimed he was the target of a “political vendetta.”

Appearing for the Goa government, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta argued that the evidence showed Tejpal repeatedly ignored the complainant’s refusal.

“He could not take a no for a no,” Mehta submitted before the court.

During the hearing, the judge asked whether any other criminal cases or complaints were pending against Tejpal.

Responding on his behalf, Tejpal’s counsel said, “Milords, there has been no FIR, complaint or bad behaviour.”

Tejpal then personally addressed the court, requesting leniency.

Opposing the plea, Solicitor General Mehta urged the court to impose the maximum punishment, arguing that the offence was aggravated by the relationship of trust between the accused and the complainant.

“Despite the victim saying no, he did not relent. The victim was a girl of his daughter’s age. He was a father figure and should not have indulged in such conduct. A precedent must be set. This court must send a clear message to society that when a girl says no, it means no. A no means a no,” Mehta argued.

The High Court convicted Tejpal after setting aside the trial court’s acquittal. The matter of sentencing is being heard separately.