Mumbai/IBNS, Aug. 6 -- The Goa Bench of the Bombay High Court on Thursday convicted former Tehelka editor Tarun Tejpal in the 2013 rape case filed by a junior colleague, overturning his earlier acquittal by a Sessions court, according to media reports.

Following the conviction, senior advocate Aabad Ponda urged the court to take a lenient view, citing the fact that the case is over 13 years old.

Tejpal, who was present in court following the bench's directions, also appealed for leniency, referring to his age.

Opposing the plea for leniency, Solicitor General of India Tushar Mehta, appearing for the Goa government, argued that the case should send a strong message on the importance of consent.

In November 2013, Tejpal was accused of s...