In a landmark ruling, a Bengaluru sessions court on Monday found former JD(S) MP Prajwal Revanna guilty of raping a 47-year-old domestic worker at his former residence. The verdict, delivered in a packed courtroom, marks a major legal development in a case that has drawn widespread media and political attention.
𧩠Background: The Allegation and Trial
In June 2024, the victimâa domestic helpâaccused Prajwal Revanna, grandson of former Prime Minister H.D. Deve Gowda, of sexual assault over multiple incidents between 2019 and 2020. She filed a police complaint in Ramanagara district, after which Bengaluru Police took over the investigation.
A sessions court processed charges under Section 376 (rape) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC). The NIA was not involved; the case remained under district investigative jurisdiction following initial police inquiries.
âïž Verdict Highlights
Courtâs Key Findings:
- Credibility upheld: The court accepted the testimony of the survivor as consistent and credible, despite attempts to discredit her character.
- Absence of corroboration did not weaken case: Despite lack of physical injury or forensic evidence, survivor credibility satisfied the criminal standard of proof.
- Intent inferred through behavior: The court assessed evidence like repeated invitations and presence in her workplace.
- Political stature not a shield: Judges stated that status cannot deter justice; conviction was based solely on evidence and legal entitlement.
Statement from the Judge:
âA man of his stature taking advantage of her vulnerability should be condemned.â
The ruling emphasized that the accused, a prominent public figure, failed to convince the court of innocence beyond reasonable doubt.
The bench reserved quantum of punishment order, which is expected by mid-August 2025.
đ Public Reactions & Fallout
Party Statements:
JD(S) released a brief statement regretting the verdict, expressing condolences to the survivor but affirming that Prajwal Revanna will appeal.
Opposition
Karnataka Congress demanded resignation from all public offices and called on leaders to take note of the verdict. They likened political protection of accused individuals to misuse of power.
Civil Society Reactions
Womenâs rights groups hailed the verdict as a positive step in holding influential men accountable. They insisted that survivors should no longer fear grooming by political pressure.
đ Legal Implications
Legal Precedents
The case echoes landmark judgments such as State of Punjab v. Gurmit Singh, which upheld that consent under familial pressure is invalid. Subsequent precedent underscores seniority and status as legally irrelevant when consent is compromisedâŻ(K.K. Velu & Anr v. Union of India).
Institutional Accountability
The case highlights the judiciaryâs role in upholding the principle that no one is above the law, regardless of political lineage.
Timeline Checks
Although the events occurred in 2019â20, the prosecution moved swiftly under Section 376. While accused may argue delay undermines evidence, the court rejected such claims after evaluating affidavits and police interviews.
đš Significance & Broader Context
Political Scandal
As the grandson of former PM Deve Gowda, Prajwal Revannaâs conviction shakes the political establishment and calls into question internal investigative independence.
Survivor Empowerment
For survivors globally, this verdict reinforces that political influence cannot ensure impunity for sexual crimes. It broadens the reach of legal authority.
Rule of Law
Legal experts highlight the case as an example of impartial adjudication. Justice did not bend to political clout, emphasizing the integrity of trial procedures
đ Summary Table
| Issue | Details |
|---|---|
| Accused | Prajwal Revanna (former JD(S) MP) |
| Survivor | 47-year-old domestic helper |
| Legal Charges | IPC Section 376 (Rape) |
| Court Ruling | Guilty verdict, sentencing pending |
| Key Legal Finding | Credibility of survivor upheld despite lack of forensic proof |
| Broader Impact | Political fallout, institutional accountability, enhanced survivor protections |
â Final Outlook
The conviction of Prajwal Revanna sends a powerful message: political status is no protection in the eyes of the law, and justice can prevail for survivors even in high-profile cases. As sentencing approaches, this case is expected to further define how allegations against the politically powerful are treated in Indian courts.
To read more Indian Laws and news, visit Legal Guide India
