Bilkis Bano Case: 11 convicts surrender at Godhra Jail in compliance with the SC deadline

The 11 convicts in the Bilkis Bano gang rape and murder case turned themselves in at the Godhra sub-jail in the Panchmahal district late on Sunday night. The convicts surrendered in compliance with the deadline set by the Supreme Court. 

"All 11 convicts have surrendered before jail authorities late Sunday night," said NL Desai, local Crime Branch inspector. 

The Supreme Court had revoked the Gujrat government's remission order on January 8, directing the convicts to surrender to the authorities within a fortnight, ending January 21. 

All 11 convicts had moved the Supreme Court asking for an extension on their deadline citing reasons such as dependent parents, family functions, and agricultural commitments. However, the apex court on Friday had turned down the pleas stating that they "have no merit", and the convicts were directed to report back to jail. 

In 2002, 21-year-old Bilkis Bano was brutally gang raped when she was 5 months pregnant. Several members of her family, including her 3 year old daughter were murdered in front of her.