Suspended JD(S) leader Prajwal Revanna, who is embroiled in a sexual abuse scandal, sought anticipatory bail on Wednesday from a Bengaluru court. Facing multiple charges and a sex tape scandal, Revanna has been absconding and currently resides in Germany. He has announced his intent to return to India on May 31 and comply with the Special Investigation Team (SIT) probe.
The Special Court for People's Representatives, where his bail plea was filed, has instructed the SIT to present its objections. Revanna's lawyer requested a hearing on Thursday; however, the SIT requested additional time to file their objections. Consequently, Justice Santosh Gajanan Bhat has scheduled the next hearing for May 31.
Revanna, a 36-year-old MP from Hassan, fled the country following the second phase of polling on April 26, after explicit videos allegedly involving him surfaced. He faces serious charges, and multiple cases have been filed against him.
In a video message released on Monday, Revanna assured he would return to India on May 31 to participate in the SIT's investigation. The SIT is preparing for his immediate arrest upon his arrival at Bengaluru Airport. Karnataka Home Minister G Parameshwara confirmed the arrest plans, emphasizing that all necessary measures are in place as an arrest warrant has been issued.
According to sources, Revanna booked a flight from Munich to Bengaluru on May 30, with an expected arrival in the early hours of May 31. The SIT is poised to arrest him upon his arrival and commence their investigation.
Prajwal Revanna, who was the NDA candidate from the Hassan Lok Sabha seat, is accused of sexually abusing multiple women. His departure from the country prompted a 'Blue Corner Notice' from Interpol, via the CBI, seeking information on his whereabouts. An arrest warrant was issued by a Special Court for Elected Representatives on May 18 following the SIT's application. The Karnataka government has also requested the Centre to revoke his diplomatic passport.
In a related context, Prajwal's father, Karnataka MLA HD Revanna, is dealing with two separate cases involving sexual harassment and abduction. He has been granted bail in both cases.
