Tarun Tejpal Convicted in 2013 Sexual Assault Case, Bombay HC Sentences Former Tehelka Editor to 10 Years Jail

Mumbai, 6th August 2026: Tarun Tejpal, former editor of Tehelka, has been convicted and sentenced to 10 years of imprisonment by the Goa bench of the Bombay High Court in a sexual assault case filed against him in 2013 by a junior colleague.

The court has granted Tejpal 14 days to surrender. Meanwhile, the former editor has issued a statement claiming that he himself is also a victim and said that he will be appealing the verdict in a higher court.

“I am 62 years old, and I believe I am a victim. I have a wife, and there is nothing more to say. All I can say is that we can appeal. Please be lenient towards me. The rest of the facts are on record,” he said.

After initially expressing regret over the situation, Tejpal stated that the incident was the result of a misunderstanding of the situation.

As the allegations surfaced, Tejpal accused the move of being politically motivated.

During the hearing, the bench also sought clarification on whether there were any other cases filed against Tejpal. “Sir, there have been no FIRs, complaints or misconduct,” his lawyer said.

Following the hearing, the Goa bench of the Bombay High Court found Tejpal guilty and convicted him in the 2013 sexual assault case.