Prajwal Revanna Sentenced to Life Imprisonment in High-Profile Rape Case

In a landmark ruling, former MP Prajwal Revanna has been sentenced to life imprisonment for the rape of a domestic worker. The verdict, delivered by a special court in Bengaluru, comes after a swift trial that lasted just eight weeks. Revanna, part of a prominent political family, faced multiple allegations of sexual misconduct, leading to significant public outrage and legal scrutiny. This case has not only impacted Revanna's political career but also raised questions about the future of his family's political legacy in Karnataka. Legal experts view this ruling as a rare instance of justice for high-profile individuals, with Revanna having the option to appeal the decision.

By Narendra Chaudhary Aug 2, 2025, 18:33 IST

Life Sentence for Prajwal Revanna

In a significant turn of events in Karnataka's legal landscape, a special court in Bengaluru has sentenced former MP Prajwal Revanna to life imprisonment for the rape of a 47-year-old domestic worker. Alongside the life sentence, the court has also imposed a fine of ₹10 lakh.

Revanna, who hails from a prominent political family, was visibly emotional as the verdict was announced. This ruling came just a day after he was found guilty and nearly 14 months following his arrest. The trial was notably brief, spanning only eight weeks.

Background of the Case

The allegations against Revanna surfaced when several women accused him of sexual misconduct, including the recording of explicit acts. In April 2024, the circulation of pen drives containing numerous such videos prompted the Karnataka State Commission for Women to request the establishment of a Special Investigation Team (SIT). This team uncovered extensive sexual exploitation linked to Revanna.

By May 2024, the SIT had filed three rape cases against him, with additional charges of sexual harassment and intimidation emerging later, totaling four criminal cases. As of October 2024, court records indicate that Revanna faced two rape charges and one sexual assault case. The Bengaluru court has now convicted him in one of these cases, specifically regarding the assault of the domestic worker.

Prajwal Revanna's Political Background

Prajwal Revanna, previously a Lok Sabha MP from Hassan and a prominent figure in the Janata Dal (Secular), was seen as a potential leader within the party. However, his legal issues and public backlash resulted in a significant defeat during the 2024 general elections.

Coming from a politically influential family, Revanna is the grandson of former Prime Minister HD Deve Gowda, the son of HD Revanna, and the nephew of former Karnataka Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy. This sentencing marks a substantial setback for the Gowda family's political legacy in Hassan and has sparked discussions within the JD(S) party regarding its future direction.

Legal experts have praised the swift resolution of this case as a notable instance of justice for high-profile individuals. Revanna retains the right to appeal the special court's decision in the Karnataka High Court.