Prajwal Revanna has been sentenced to spend the rest of his life in prison in a rape case

Justice Served: Prajwal Revanna Sentenced to Life Imprisonment in Landmark Rape Case

In a powerful and long-awaited moment of justice, former JD(S) MP Prajwal Revanna was sentenced today to spend the rest of his life in prison after being found guilty in a horrific rape case that captured national attention. The verdict brings a solemn close to a legal battle that began over a year ago, marked by a dramatic international manhunt and courageous testimony from survivors.

The Special Court in Bengaluru delivered the sentence, condemning Revanna to rigorous imprisonment for natural life. Judge N.V. Jyoti found him guilty on multiple serious charges, including rape, sexual assault, and criminal intimidation under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code and the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.

The case first came to light in mid-2024 when hundreds of explicit videos allegedly showing Revanna assaulting women were leaked publicly. The scandal led to the immediate formation of a Special Investigation Team (SIT). Rather than cooperate, Revanna—a grandson of former Prime Minister H. D. Deve Gowda—fled the country using a diplomatic passport. His escape sparked an intense international search, ending weeks later with his arrest at Munich Airport in Germany. After lengthy extradition proceedings, he was returned to India to face trial.

Throughout the proceedings, the prosecution built a compelling case supported by forensic evidence, digital records, and—most importantly—the consistent and moving accounts of the survivors. Their bravery in coming forward was repeatedly acknowledged as pivotal to achieving this outcome.

Emotions ran high in the courtroom as the sentence was read. Survivors and their families, who have endured immense personal strain and public scrutiny, showed visible relief. Special Public Prosecutor Geetha Menon addressed reporters outside the court, stating, “This judgment reaffirms that the rule of law applies to everyone. No political power or privilege can shield a criminal from justice. Today belongs to the survivors.”

The verdict has been met with widespread approval across the country. Women’s rights groups, legal experts, and ordinary citizens have hailed the ruling as a landmark moment for accountability and gender justice in India. Activist Dr. Anjali Sharma noted, “This sentence, while it cannot erase trauma, sends a strong message: the era of impunity for powerful offenders is ending.”

The case also had significant political repercussions, causing turmoil within the JD(S) party and influencing public discourse ahead of state and national elections.

In Revanna’s former constituency of Hassan, residents expressed a mix of sadness and satisfaction. A local business owner shared, “It’s a tragic chapter for our community, but today justice was served. This gives everyone hope that the system can work.”

With this life sentence, Prajwal Revanna will remain behind bars for the rest of his days—a stark downfall for a once-influential political figure. The case stands as a somber yet defining milestone in India’s ongoing struggle against sexual violence and for dignity and justice for all.