The Special Investigation Team (SIT) of Karnataka's Crime Investigation Department (CID) has intensified its probe into former Janata Dal-Secular (JDS) MP Prajwal Revanna, culminating in the submission of a meticulously detailed 2,144-page chargesheet to the Special People’s Court in Bengaluru. This document represents a significant milestone in the investigation, which has drawn intense public scrutiny due to the high-profile nature of the individuals involved.
Prajwal Revanna, a prominent political figure and the grandson of former Prime Minister H D Deve Gowda, along with his father, H D Revanna, a senior JDS leader and MLA, have been accused of heinous acts, including the sexual assault and harassment of a domestic helper employed at their residence. The chargesheet, compiled over several months, is not merely a collection of accusations but a well-documented dossier of evidence, including spot inspections, biological samples, physical and scientific evidence, mobile and digital data, and crucial circumstantial evidence that allegedly ties the former MP to these serious crimes.
The SIT's investigation has been exhaustive, incorporating expert opinions from various fields to ensure that the evidence withstands judicial scrutiny. The allegations first came to light during the run-up to the Lok Sabha elections in Hassan, where Prajwal Revanna was contesting. Reports surfaced of a pen drive containing explicit videos allegedly featuring Revanna, which were circulated widely and sparked a media frenzy. In his defense, Revanna vehemently denied the authenticity of the videos, claiming they were morphed as part of a political conspiracy against him. However, the SIT's investigation appears to have found enough credible evidence to move forward with formal charges.
One of the most disturbing aspects of the case is the involvement of H D Revanna, Prajwal's father, who is also implicated in the sexual harassment of the domestic helper and her daughter. The victims have provided detailed testimonies alleging that they were subjected to repeated abuse over an extended period. These allegations, combined with the digital evidence obtained during the investigation, have significantly strengthened the case against the Revannas.
The fallout from these allegations has been swift and severe. The JDS, a party traditionally rooted in the Vokkaliga community and with significant influence in Karnataka, moved quickly to distance itself from Prajwal Revanna. His suspension from the party was a clear signal that the JDS leadership wanted to avoid any further damage to its reputation, particularly as the party faces increasing challenges from both the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Congress in the state.
Since his arrest on May 31, Prajwal Revanna has remained in custody, with the court denying multiple bail applications due to the seriousness of the charges against him. The ongoing investigation has also led to broader questions about the accountability of political leaders and the extent of their influence over legal processes in India. The SIT’s decision to file a chargesheet of this magnitude suggests that they are confident in the strength of their case, and it indicates a commitment to ensuring that justice is served, regardless of the social and political standing of the accused.
As the case progresses, it is expected to have far-reaching implications, not only for the individuals involved but also for the political landscape in Karnataka. The allegations against Prajwal Revanna and his father have already triggered debates about the moral and ethical responsibilities of public figures, and whether the legal system can effectively hold them accountable. With three cases of sexual assault and one of sexual harassment officially lodged against him, Prajwal Revanna's legal battles are far from over, and the developments in this case will be closely watched by both the public and political analysts alike.
This case also raises critical questions about the safety and protection of vulnerable individuals, such as domestic workers, who often find themselves at the mercy of powerful employers. The SIT's chargesheet, with its extensive documentation and reliance on diverse forms of evidence, represents a significant step forward in addressing these issues, and it remains to be seen how the court will respond to the voluminous evidence presented. The outcome of this case could set an important precedent for how similar cases are handled in the future, particularly those involving influential figures.
Â
