Some leaders' silence on Tehelka assault case conspicuous: BJP

NEW DELHI: BJP questioned the "conspicuous silence" of some leaders on the sexual assault of a journalist by former Tehelka editor Tarun Tejpal, saying they were very vocal on the rape and murder of Nirbhaya last year but are not speaking out now.

Leader of the Opposition in Rajya Sabha Arun Jaitley said on his Facebook page that Tejpal's assault of a young journalist has led to an outrage similar to the one seen when the "inhuman and brutal rape and murder" of Nirbhaya took place last December.

Without naming the Congress, he said some leaders have been silent on the Tejpal case. BJP has alleged that Tejpal is close to the Congress and hence the ruling party is not criticising him.

Recalling the Nirbhaya case, Jaitley said there were nation-wide demonstrations and socially conscious citizens, especially the youth, protested in New Delhi for several days together to reflect the anger of the society.

"Many competed with each other for space in the media to express their anguish. Each was more vocal than the other. A similar debate has been witnessed after a young journalist made serious allegations against her editor. Many have held their positions and are speaking out. There are some who are conspicuous by their silence. Can we know the reasons why?" Jaitley said.