Supreme Court Reverses Early Release for Bilkis Bano Gang Rape Case Convicts

India's Supreme Court has overturned the early release of 11 Hindu men convicted for the gang rape of Bilkis Bano and the murder of her relatives during the 2002 anti-Muslim riots in Gujarat. The court directed the men to surrender to prison authorities within two weeks, rejecting their plea for protection of their liberty. The release of the men by the Gujarat government had drawn widespread condemnation, with critics alleging political motives. The ruling has been welcomed by Bano's supporters and the opposition Congress party, emphasizing the importance of upholding the rule of law.