The sentencing represents a significant moment in India's ongoing struggle against sexual violence and the influence of prominent political families.
Prominent Former Indian MP Sentenced to Life for Rape Conviction
Prominent Former Indian MP Sentenced to Life for Rape Conviction
A high-profile case highlights issues of sexual assault and political power dynamics in India.
In a landmark decision on Saturday, a court in southern India sentenced former Member of Parliament Prajwal Revanna to life in prison for the rape of a domestic staff member. Revanna, a key figure in Karnataka's political landscape and a member of an influential family, was convicted just a day prior, amidst a myriad of serious allegations against him.
The accusations against the 34-year-old politician arose in 2023 when explicit videos of him began to circulate widely, leading to national outrage. Despite denying the charges, Revanna broke down during the sentencing phase, pleading for leniency, which he will be able to appeal. This conviction marks a rare instance of accountability for someone from such a powerful political lineage in India.
Prajwal Revanna is the grandson of former Prime Minister H. D. Deve Gowda, and his family holds significant sway within the Janata Dal (Secular) party, which maintains an alliance with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's ruling BJP. Following the scandal in April 2024, Revanna fled the country, utilizing his diplomatic passport, as videos of his alleged misconduct continued to prompt public outrage.
His return to India a month later culminated in his arrest, and he currently also faces two additional rape charges and a case of sexual harassment, all of which he vehemently denies. The high-profile nature of this case underscores the ongoing societal challenges related to sexual violence in India, particularly as public demand for justice and accountability continues to rise.
The accusations against the 34-year-old politician arose in 2023 when explicit videos of him began to circulate widely, leading to national outrage. Despite denying the charges, Revanna broke down during the sentencing phase, pleading for leniency, which he will be able to appeal. This conviction marks a rare instance of accountability for someone from such a powerful political lineage in India.
Prajwal Revanna is the grandson of former Prime Minister H. D. Deve Gowda, and his family holds significant sway within the Janata Dal (Secular) party, which maintains an alliance with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's ruling BJP. Following the scandal in April 2024, Revanna fled the country, utilizing his diplomatic passport, as videos of his alleged misconduct continued to prompt public outrage.
His return to India a month later culminated in his arrest, and he currently also faces two additional rape charges and a case of sexual harassment, all of which he vehemently denies. The high-profile nature of this case underscores the ongoing societal challenges related to sexual violence in India, particularly as public demand for justice and accountability continues to rise.
