In a letter addressed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi dated May 22, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah urged for the cancellation of the diplomatic passport belonging to Hassan MP Prajwal Revanna, who has been reportedly absconding since the emergence of allegations surrounding a sex scandal last month. Sources have indicated that the Karnataka government's appeal for the revocation of Revanna's diplomatic passport is presently undergoing consideration by the Ministry of External Affairs.
The state's plea marks a significant escalation in its endeavors to address the accusations against the MP, who purportedly departed to Germany amidst the unfolding scandal.
Expressing his dismay, Siddaramaiah denounced Revanna's actions, stating that it is "shameful" that the MP allegedly fled the country on April 27, utilizing his diplomatic passport, shortly after reports of his alleged misconduct surfaced and just hours before the filing of the initial FIR against him. The Chief Minister further asserted that Revanna misused his diplomatic privileges to evade criminal proceedings.
An arrest warrant has been issued against Prajwal Revanna following the circulation of several videos allegedly depicting women being sexually abused by the suspended Janata Dal (Secular) leader, before the first phase of Lok Sabha elections in Karnataka on April 26. Revanna, who was contesting as the JD(S)-BJP joint candidate from Hassan, has refuted the authenticity of the videos, claiming them to be manipulated. He faces multiple charges including rape, molestation, intimidation, blackmailing, and threatening, with Interpol issuing a blue corner notice against him.
In addition, Siddaramaiah highlighted in his correspondence that the state government has taken swift action to ensure justice by establishing a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to investigate the allegations against Prajwal Revanna. Despite concerted efforts by the SIT, the accused remains elusive, prompting concerns over his continued evasion of law enforcement despite the issuance of a Look Out Circular, a blue corner notice, and two notices by the Investigating Officer.
Expressing disappointment over the apparent inaction following his earlier communication on the matter, Siddaramaiah implored the Prime Minister to treat the situation with utmost gravity and promptly initiate necessary measures to cancel Prajwal Revanna's diplomatic passport under Section 10(3)(h) of the Passport Act, 1967, or any other relevant legislation, to facilitate his return to the country in the interest of justice.
This development unfolded following Karnataka Home Minister G Parmeshwara's statement that the Centre had not responded to requests for the cancellation of Revanna's diplomatic passport, despite the issuance of an arrest warrant against him by the court. Furthermore, on May 2, the Ministry of External Affairs disclosed that Revanna had not sought political clearance for his trip to Germany, affirming that no political clearance or visa note was issued for his travel.
