Three Women Catalysts Behind Bilkis Bano’s Triumph

In an inspiring legal victory, the Supreme Court nullified the remission granted to 11 convicts involved in the 2002 Gujarat riots, thanks to the relentless efforts of three remarkable women: Roop Rekha Verma, Subhashini Ali, and Revati Laul.

Petitioners Challenge Remission

After enduring a prolonged struggle spanning over two decades, the Supreme Court’s recent decision brought justice to Bilkis Bano, a survivor of the heinous gang rape and the tragic loss of seven family members during the Gujarat riots. The Gujarat government’s controversial decision to grant remission to the 11 convicts in August 2022 prompted the trio to file a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) challenging the move.

Sorrowful Reactions Ignite Action

Subhashini Ali, who had met Bilkis Bano personally in a relief camp in 2002, shared the heart-wrenching moment when Bano questioned if justice had come to an end. Disturbed by this, Ali, along with fellow petitioners Roop Rekha Verma and Revati Laul, decided to challenge the remission through a PIL.

Journalist’s Swift Agreement

Revati Laul, a seasoned journalist, and author of “Anatomy Of Hate,” was quick to join the cause. Having previously met Bilkis in the aftermath of the incident, Laul expressed her immediate agreement to be the third petitioner upon learning about the remission.

Supreme Court’s Verdict and Reaction

The Supreme Court bench, headed by Justices BV Nagarathna and Ujjal Bhuyan, declared the remission an “instance of usurpation of jurisdiction” and an “abuse of discretion.” The court ordered the 11 convicts to return to jail within two weeks. This decision, according to petitioner Roop Rekha Verma, signals the presence of impartial judges, instilling confidence in the justice system.

Profiles of the Three Women Petitioners

1. Roop Rekha Verma: A renowned social activist and former vice chancellor of Lucknow University, Verma has been a consistent advocate for justice, notably supporting journalist Sidheeq Kappan against the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA).
2. Subhashini Ali: A prominent member of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) and a leader of the All India Democratic Women’s Association, Ali has been a strong voice for women’s rights and a Member of Parliament from Kanpur.
3. Revati Laul: An independent journalist associated with leading media houses, Laul authored “The Anatomy Of Hate,” shedding light on the perpetrators of the 2002 Gujarat riots. She played a crucial role in Bilkis Bano’s pursuit of justice.

The triumphant verdict not only ensures the return of the convicts to jail but also stands as a powerful reminder of the resilience and determination of these three women in the face of injustice.

Re-reported from the article originally published in The shethepeople