Prominent Karnataka Politician Sentenced to Life for Rape

A Karnataka court's decision to impose a life sentence on Prajwal Revanna highlights the ongoing struggle against sexual violence in India's political sphere.

A significant ruling has emerged from a southern Indian court as Prajwal Revanna, a former Member of Parliament (MP) from Karnataka, was sentenced to life imprisonment for raping a former domestic employee. The sentencing on Saturday followed Revanna's conviction on sexual assault charges, which have sparked national outrage since the allegations first surfaced in 2023.

The case gained widespread attention when explicit videos allegedly related to Revanna began circulating on social media, triggering public outcry. The 34-year-old politician, who comes from a notable political lineage as the grandson of ex-Prime Minister H D Deve Gowda, had consistently denied the accusations against him. Breaking down during the court proceedings, Revanna requested leniency from the judge even after being found guilty.

Though he has the option to appeal the sentence, this case marks a significant moment in India's history, rarely do influential politicians face such repercussions for sexual crimes. Revanna left India in April 2024 using his diplomatic passport amid the escalating scandal, returning only a month later from Germany, where he was subsequently arrested upon his arrival.

Despite Revanna's claims that the videos were manipulated, the response from public officials was minimal. In addition to the current case, he faces two other accusations of rape, as well as a charge of sexual harassment, all of which he denies. This ruling sets a compelling precedent in India's legal landscape concerning sexual violence, particularly involving high-profile figures in politics.