Special court convicts former MP under IPC 376(2)(k), 354, and 354(b); verdict hailed as a strong message against abuse of power
Bengaluru: In a landmark judgment, former Member of Parliament Prajwal Revanna has been sentenced to life imprisonment by a special court for people’s representatives in a rape case involving a woman working at a farmhouse in K.R. Nagar. The court also imposed a fine of ₹5 lakh and ordered a total compensation of ₹7 lakh to be paid to the victim.
The judgment, delivered by Judge Santosh Gajanan Bhat, follows Prajwal Revanna’s conviction on Friday, with the quantum of punishment announced on Saturday.
Details of the Case
According to Special Public Prosecutor (SPP) B.N. Jagadish, Prajwal Revanna:
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Sexually assaulted the victim repeatedly, taking advantage of her uneducated background and vulnerability.
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Threatened her using his political influence, abusing his then-official position.
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Recorded videos of the assault without consent, later using them as tools for blackmail.
"The victim was mentally and physically shattered. After the videos surfaced, she even attempted suicide. Her dignity, and that of her family, was severely harmed," said SPP Jagadish during arguments.
The court noted that the act was a deliberate and repeated abuse of power, and the videos were made with intent to exploit and intimidate the victim.
Sections Invoked and Sentencing
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IPC 376(2)(k): Life imprisonment for rape by a person in a position of authority
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IPC 354: 3 years rigorous imprisonment + ₹5 lakh fine for assault on a woman with intent to outrage modesty
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IPC 354(b): Additional 3 years rigorous imprisonment for assault intending to disrobe a woman
The court directed that the ₹7 lakh compensation be paid to the victim to support her physical and emotional recovery.
Political Impact and Reactions
This verdict marks a severe blow to Prajwal Revanna’s political career. A sitting JD(S) MP until recently, Revanna had been under public scrutiny after multiple women came forward with sexual assault allegations earlier this year.
The State Congress welcomed the verdict, posting on social media:
“He who ate salt must drink water—may he enjoy the fruits of his karma in this life.”
Legal experts suggest an appeal is likely to be filed, but public sentiment has largely hailed the verdict as a strong message that even influential public figures are not above the law.
Public Reaction and Legal Significance
The ruling has triggered widespread public debate and support for the victim, who endured significant trauma over a prolonged period. Activists and citizens see the judgment as a watershed moment in the fight against sexual violence by the powerful.
“This is a victory for justice. It sends a clear message—no one is untouchable in the eyes of the law,” said a senior advocate observing the case.
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