Bilkis Bano expressed profound relief as the Supreme Court overturned the remission granted to 11 men who were previously convicted for the rape and murder of seven members of her family during the 2002 Gujarat riots. The apex court, while setting aside the Gujarat government's remission decision on Monday (January 8), remarked that the state's order lacked proper scrutiny and was passed without due diligence.
Through her legal representative, Shobha Gupta, Bano conveyed her gratitude to the Supreme Court, describing the ruling as a significant milestone. "Today marks a new beginning for me," she remarked, reflecting on her emotional journey. "The weight I've been carrying feels lifted, allowing me to breathe freely once again," news agency PTI reported.
According to the PTI report, Bano further elaborated on the challenges she faced over the years, highlighting the pivotal role of her family, friends, and legal counsel, Advocate Shobha Gupta, in sustaining her hope for justice.
Recalling the distressing events of August 15, 2022, when the perpetrators were prematurely released, Bano spoke of her initial despair. However, she found renewed strength and resilience through the overwhelming support of countless individuals across India. She acknowledged the collective efforts of thousands who rallied behind her cause, from filing PIL petitions to drafting open letters, spanning various regions of the country.
"I have wept tears of relief. I have smiled for the first time in over a year and half. I have hugged my children. It feels like a stone the size of a mountain has been lifted from my chest, and I can breathe again," Bano said, according to PTI.
"This is what justice feels like. I thank the Honourable Supreme Court of India for providing me, my children, and women everywhere with vindication and hope in the promise of equal justice for all," Bano stated. The Supreme Court accused the Gujarat government of abusing its power and ordered that the 11 men be returned to jail within two weeks.
Expressing her deep appreciation for this solidarity, Bano emphasised its pivotal role in reinforcing her determination. "The unwavering support I received reaffirmed my belief in justice, not just for myself but for every woman in our nation," she affirmed, as reported by PTI.
Concluding her statement, Bano articulated a heartfelt aspiration: "As I reflect on this verdict and its implications for my family and countless others, my fervent hope is for a society where the rule of law reigns supreme and equality prevails for all".