The Unnao rape survivor on Monday expressed deep relief and renewed determination after the Supreme Court put a hold on the Delhi High Court order that had temporarily suspended the life sentence of former BJP MLA Kuldeep Singh Sengar. The apex court’s move ensured that the convicted politician will remain behind bars, bringing a moment of reassurance to the survivor and her family.

Reacting to the development, the survivor said the Supreme Court’s intervention had strengthened her long-standing faith in the justice system. Speaking from Delhi, she said she felt heard and protected after years of fear and struggle. “I have been fighting from the very beginning. Today, I feel that justice is standing with me,” she said.

The survivor made it clear that her legal battle is far from over. She reiterated her resolve to pursue the case until the strictest punishment is awarded. According to her, the family continues to live under constant threat, making the court’s decision crucial for their safety and peace of mind.

Her family members also welcomed the Supreme Court’s decision, calling it a critical step toward accountability. The survivor’s sister said the order brought a sense of security that had been missing for years. She accused the convict of destroying their family and said there should be no question of his release. The survivor’s mother echoed similar sentiments, stating that those responsible for her husband’s death deserve the harshest punishment under the law.

Earlier in the day, the Supreme Court stayed the Delhi High Court’s December 23 order that had suspended Sengar’s life sentence in the 2017 rape case and granted him bail during the pendency of his appeal. Acting on a petition filed by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), the top court issued a notice to Sengar and made it clear that he would not be released from custody.

While the High Court had cited the duration of imprisonment already served as grounds for suspension, the Supreme Court observed that the matter required deeper consideration. It also noted that Sengar continues to remain in jail in connection with the custodial death of the survivor’s father, for which he is serving a separate sentence.