In a significant verdict that has grabbed national headlines, Prajwal Revanna, former Member of Parliament (MP) and grandson of former Prime Minister H.D. Deve Gowda, was sentenced to life imprisonment in a rape and sexual assault case. The Special Court for MPs/MLAs in Bengaluru delivered this judgment on August 2, 2025, after months of intense investigation and legal proceedings.
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⚖️ Case Overview: How It All Started
The controversy began in April 2024, when multiple explicit videos surfaced online, allegedly showing Prajwal Revanna engaging in sexual assault. These videos were widely shared in Karnataka, especially in Hassan district, which is the political stronghold of his family.
A 47-year-old domestic worker filed a formal complaint against him, alleging that he had sexually assaulted her on multiple occasions. According to her statement, the incidents occurred in 2021 at the Revanna family farmhouse in Hassan and later at his Bengaluru residence during the COVID lockdown period.
🔍 SIT Investigation & Evidence Collection
The Karnataka government formed a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe the matter. The SIT collected substantial evidence including:
- Video footage from mobile phones.
- DNA reports matching Prajwal Revanna.
- Testimonies from 113 witnesses, including domestic staff and security personnel.
- Digital forensic reports.
Prajwal fled to Germany just after the videos became public but returned to India on May 31, 2024, and was arrested at the Bengaluru Airport. Since his arrest, he remained in judicial custody.
🏛️ Court Proceedings & Verdict
The trial began in June 2025 and concluded by the end of July. The prosecution presented solid evidence, including digital proof, eyewitness testimonies, and forensic reports.
On August 1, 2025, the Special Court found Prajwal Revanna guilty under multiple sections:
- Rape (Section 376 IPC)
- Sexual Harassment
- Criminal Intimidation
- IT Act violations for explicit content
The next day, the court announced a life sentence (imprisonment till death). Additionally, a fine of ₹11.6 lakh was imposed, of which ₹11.25 lakh was ordered to be paid as compensation to the survivor.
🎯 Political Fallout & Public Reactions
This verdict is being seen as a turning point in Karnataka’s political history. The Revanna family, which holds significant influence in Hassan and JD(S) circles, has remained silent post-verdict.
Many political analysts believe this conviction sends a strong message that legal systems can act independently, even against powerful political figures.
However, JD(S) supporters alleged political conspiracy, claiming the timing of the videos (just before Lok Sabha elections) was aimed at tarnishing the party’s image.
READ ALSO : SIT Officer’s Misconduct in Dharmasthala Probe: Is Justice at Risk ?
💡 Why This Case Matters
- Rule of Law over Political Power: The conviction of a former MP reinforces the idea that no one is above the law.
- Justice for Survivors: This case became a symbol of hope for sexual assault survivors, showing that even powerful perpetrators can be held accountable.
- Digital Evidence as Key Proof: The use of digital forensics played a major role in strengthening the prosecution’s case.
📅 Timeline of Key Events
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| April 2024 | Explicit videos leaked online |
| May 2024 | Prajwal fled to Germany |
| May 31, 2024 | Arrested upon return at Bengaluru Airport |
| June 2025 | Trial commenced |
| August 1, 2025 | Conviction announced |
| August 2, 2025 | Sentenced to Life Imprisonment |
📝 Prajwal Revanna’s Statement in Court
During the sentencing, Prajwal Revanna said, “I have been falsely targeted due to my rapid rise in politics. I respect the judiciary but will appeal to a higher court.”
His family has hinted that they might move to the Karnataka High Court to challenge the verdict.
