Supreme Court Intervention in Sowjanya Case: Orders Immediate Protection for Witnesses and Seeks Re-investigation Stand

New Delhi: In a major breakthrough in the 13-year-old Sowjanya rape and murder case, the Supreme Court of India today (April 29, 2026) issued landmark directions prioritizing witness safety and the possibility of a fresh probe. Activist Girish Mattennavar highlighted the key outcomes of the hearing.
Key Legal Developments:
Witness Security: Citing the suspicious deaths of several crucial witnesses in the past, the Apex Court directed the State Government to provide immediate and round-the-clock protection to all remaining key witnesses.
Deadline for CBI & State: The Court has given a two-week deadline to the CBI and the Karnataka Government to submit their written stance on a re-investigation and suggest which agency could lead it.
Reprimand to State Counsel: The Bench pulled up the state government’s counsel for their “apparent lack of interest” and delay in such a serious criminal matter.
Sealed Cover Documents: Senior counsels for the petitioners submitted vital evidence in a sealed cover, which the court reviewed before ordering witness protection.
“This development restores faith in the judiciary and validates the long struggle of Sowjanya’s mother Kusumavati and activists like Mahesh Shetty Timarodi,” stated Girish Mattennavar. The next hearing is scheduled for July 14.