In a significant development in the infamous Bilkis Bano gang rape case, several convicts have petitioned the Supreme Court of India for an extension of their surrender deadline, citing reasons ranging from health concerns to family obligations.

On January 8, 2024, the Supreme Court ordered the convicts, including key figure Govindhbhai Nai, to surrender within two weeks. Govindhbhai Nai has since appealed to the Court for a four-week extension, citing the critical condition of his bedridden father, for whom he is the sole caregiver. He also mentioned his own health issues, including a recent angiography and pending surgery.

This request follows the controversial release of the convicts on August 14, 2023, just before India's 77th Independence Day, a decision made by the Gujarat government but later overturned by the Supreme Court.

Other convicts, including Ramesh Rupabhai Chandana and Mitesh Chimanlal Bhat, have also sought extensions for surrender, primarily for family reasons such as upcoming weddings. Similarly, Pradeep Ramanlal Modhiya is requesting an additional four weeks due to a recent lung surgery, while Bipinchand Kanaiyalal, who is partially disabled following a leg surgery, has asked for a six-week extension.

Furthermore, Radheshyam Bhagwan Das and Rajubhai Babulal Soni are seeking six-week extensions to arrange financial support for their families. Convicts Jaswantbhai Chaturbhai Nai, Kesharbhai Khimabhai Vohania, and Shaileshbhai Chimanlal Bhatt have also approached the apex court, citing reasons such as old age and the need to harvest winter crops.

As the case unfolds, the Supreme Court is tasked with the challenging balance of delivering justice while considering the personal circumstances of the convicts. The Bilkis Bano case continues to be a complex legal matter, raising questions about remission policies and the role of state authorities in ensuring justice for victims of such serious crimes.