Justice Delivered: Former MP Prajwal Revanna Sentenced to Life for Rape of Domestic Worker

In a landmark judgment that reverberated across Karnataka’s political landscape, former Member of Parliament Prajwal Revanna was sentenced to life imprisonment for the rape of a domestic worker employed at his family’s farmhouse. The verdict was delivered by the Special Sessions Court in Bengaluru, marking the first conviction among multiple cases filed against the suspended JD(S) leader.

The survivor, a 48-year-old woman from Mysuru district, had worked in Revanna’s household and endured repeated sexual assaults. Her testimony, supported by forensic evidence and video recordings, formed the backbone of the prosecution’s case. The court also imposed a fine of ₹11.5 lakh, with ₹11.25 lakh awarded to the survivor as compensation.

Revanna, grandson of former Prime Minister H.D. Deve Gowda, was convicted under multiple sections of the Indian Penal Code, including:

• IPC 376(2)(K) and 376(2)(N): Rape while in a position of dominance and repeated rape
• IPC 354A, 354B, 354C: Sexual harassment, assault with intent to disrobe, and voyeurism
• IPC 506 and 201: Criminal intimidation and tampering with evidence
• Section 66(E) of the IT Act: Violation of privacy through unauthorized video recording

The court noted the gravity of the crime and the abuse of power, rejecting defense claims of political motivation. Revanna had fled to Germany following the leak of explicit videos in April 2024, returning only after public outrage and media scrutiny intensified. He was arrested upon arrival in Bengaluru on May 31, 2024.

The survivor’s courage in coming forward, despite threats and social stigma, was acknowledged by the prosecution as pivotal. Her statement, recorded under judicial supervision, helped establish a clear timeline and corroborated the forensic findings.

This conviction sets a precedent for prosecuting sexual violence involving politically influential individuals. The court emphasized that public representatives must be held to the highest standards of accountability.

Revanna, visibly shaken during sentencing, has the legal option to appeal. However, the court’s decision stands as a powerful affirmation of justice for survivors of sexual violence, regardless of the accused’s stature. The case continues to spark debate across Karnataka, with calls for systemic reforms and greater protections for vulnerable workers