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The Supreme Court of India has definitively upheld its previous decision to cancel the remission granted to eleven convicts in the Bilkis Bano gang rape case. The court dismissed review petitions filed by both the convicts and the State of Gujarat, effectively reaffirming the January 8 judgment that deemed the remission unwarranted. This decision marks a significant milestone in the long and arduous journey for justice in this case, a journey that began with the horrific gang rape and murder of Bilkis Bano's family during the 2002 Gujarat riots.
The State of Gujarat had initially argued against the court's earlier decision to cancel the remission, focusing its challenge on the adverse remarks made against it by the court in the January 8 judgment. However, the court, in its recent ruling, found no merit in the review petitions filed by either the convicts or the state. The court's dismissal of these petitions signifies a strong affirmation of the original judgment and its rationale, emphasizing the severity of the crime and the need for accountability.
This case has been widely scrutinized and has garnered significant national and international attention. The Supreme Court's decision, while providing closure for Bilkis Bano and her family, serves as a stark reminder of the imperative for strong legal frameworks and unwavering commitment to upholding justice, particularly in cases of such heinous crimes. The court's decision sends a clear message about its commitment to ensuring that even powerful entities and individuals are held accountable for their actions, regardless of their political affiliations or positions.