Life Imprisonment for Prajwal Revanna After Conviction in Rape Case
Bengaluru, August 2, 2025:
In a landmark verdict that has drawn widespread attention, a special court in Bengaluru on Friday sentenced former Member of Parliament Prajwal Revanna to life imprisonment after convicting him in a high-profile rape case. The court found Revanna guilty of multiple charges, including aggravated rape, criminal intimidation, and unlawful confinement.
The case revolved around allegations that Revanna had raped a woman who worked in his office in 2023. According to the prosecution, the victim was sexually assaulted multiple times and threatened with severe consequences if she revealed the truth.
Delivering the judgment, the judge noted that the prosecution had successfully proven beyond reasonable doubt that Revanna had committed rape by abusing his power and position. The court observed that such acts damage not only the dignity of the victim but also erode public trust in elected officials.
Public outcry and media focus on rape case
The rape allegations gained prominence after a video surfaced in late 2023, allegedly showing Revanna forcing himself on the victim. The footage sparked outrage among civil society groups and women’s rights activists, eventually leading to an FIR and a thorough investigation.
During the trial, over 40 witnesses testified, and digital evidence played a critical role. The prosecution maintained that Revanna’s actions were deliberate, and that the victim faced consistent threats designed to silence her and cover up the rape.
Mixed political and public reactions
The court’s decision to convict Revanna for molestation has been welcomed by women’s rights organizations as a significant step toward justice for survivors. Activists emphasized that the judgment sends a strong message that power and political status cannot shield anyone from accountability.
However, reactions within political circles have been divided. Some leaders praised the judiciary for delivering justice in a sensitive rape case, while Revanna’s supporters and certain party members insisted he had been wrongly accused.
Sentencing and legal consequences
For the charge of molestation, Revanna received a sentence of life imprisonment. Additional, shorter sentences were also imposed for related charges, such as criminal intimidation and evidence tampering, with all sentences to run concurrently.
The judge underscored the gravity of committing rape by exploiting political power and stressed that a severe punishment was necessary to reflect the seriousness of the crime.
Impact on Prajwal Revanna’s political career
Revanna, who once represented Hassan in the Lok Sabha, now faces disqualification under Indian law, which prohibits individuals convicted of crimes like rape from holding elected office. His previously rising political career appears to have come to an abrupt end.
Legal experts expect Revanna’s defense team to file an appeal challenging the rape conviction, but until a higher court intervenes, the former MP remains in judicial custody.
Victim’s statement and broader social message
Through her legal team, the victim expressed relief after the conviction, stating: “This verdict shows that no woman should remain silent, regardless of who the accused may be.” The statement also urged society to support survivors of molestation and other sexual crimes, particularly when they face powerful perpetrators.
The case highlights persistent issues around sexual violence, especially in workplaces where power dynamics can prevent victims from speaking out. Activists argue that while this judgment is important, more systemic changes are needed to protect women and address the stigma often associated with reporting molestation.
Conclusion
The sentencing of Prajwal Revanna to life imprisonment in the rape case marks a significant legal precedent, demonstrating that no individual, no matter how influential, is above the law. As the nation reacts to the ruling, it also serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by survivors of molestation and the importance of collective efforts to ensure justice, dignity and safety for all.
Also read: https://channel6network.com/minister-suryabanshi-for-world-athletics/
