Karnataka Sex Scandal: A Sari and a Shocking Verdict—How Evidence Put Ex-MP Prajwal Revanna Behind Bars for Life

Karnataka’s political landscape was shaken to its core as a historic verdict was finally reached this week in the infamous sex scandal involving former Member of Parliament and JD(S) leader Prajwal Revanna. The court sentenced him to life imprisonment, a judgment rooted in powerful and undeniable evidence—a simple sari.

But how did an ordinary sari become the key to unraveling a case that exposed years of sexual exploitation and abuse at the hands of a powerful politician and his influential family? The answer lies in the courage of the victims, the breakthrough forensic investigation, and a long-fought legal battle that has set a precedent in Indian judicial history.

The Shocking Details

Prajwal Revanna, hailing from Hassan and belonging to one of Karnataka’s most influential political dynasties, was found guilty in two criminal cases of sexual assault. Along with a life sentence, the court ordered him to pay ₹11 lakh in damages to the survivor as compensation for her suffering.

The investigation revealed that Revanna used his position to exploit women employed in his household and repeatedly subjected them to abuse—going as far as to film them in compromising conditions. The case that finally brought him down revolved around one brave woman and the sari she wore the day she was attacked.

The Sari that Changed Everything

The turning point of the case came when the survivor revealed in court that she had carefully preserved the sari she wore during the assault. When tested during the forensic investigation, the sari yielded vital evidence—traces of semen linking directly to Revanna. This crucial piece of physical evidence, combined with recorded video footage clearly showing Revanna’s face, sealed his fate.

The survivor had secretly recorded the incident as additional proof, despite the immense personal risk involved. The videos later went viral on social media, exposing the scale of Revanna’s exploitation and the depth of the corruption shielding him.

Manipulation, Threats, and a Pattern of Abuse

According to the survivor’s testimony, the abuse wasn’t limited to one shocking incident. Over months and years, Revanna allegedly forced her into sexual acts via video calls, threatening to ruin her family if she refused. She recounted horrific threats—Revanna said he would destroy her mother’s life and her father’s government job unless she complied.

The woman’s mother was also allegedly raped by Revanna at their Bengaluru residence, an act that was also filmed and later spread online. Further investigation revealed a pattern of manipulation and intimidation: three maidservants also came forward, supported by similar stories.

The survivor’s family suffered relentless pressure—her father lost his job, the family had to sell their land, and her mother was forced into hiding. They were treated “like slaves,” she told the court, and threatened constantly to keep silent.

Breaking the Chains of Fear

The survivor and her mother admitted they were initially too terrified to go to the police. Only after watching the incriminating video and enduring years of pain did they find the courage to seek justice, giving direct statements to the judge and superintendent. Revanna’s family reportedly tried to bribe and coerce them into withdrawing their case, promising the return of their lost home and land.

A Verdict That Shook Karnataka

The case sent ripples through Karnataka’s political circles, shaking the foundation of the JD(S) party and exposing the dark side of those in power. The special police SIT has been assigned to continue the investigation, and many hope this landmark court decision will empower other survivors of abuse to speak out.

As the survivor’s family stated after the sentencing: “Now that the court has given a strong punishment, we trust that justice is alive. If anything happens to us, Prajwal Revanna and his family will be responsible.”

The Message

This verdict is more than a victory for one woman—it’s a message to abusers everywhere that India’s justice system can and will bring powerful offenders to account, no matter the odds. A simple sari, preserved in hope and determination, has become a symbol of truth and the courage to fight for justice.

What are your thoughts on this shocking verdict and the impact it leaves on Indian politics? Let us know in the comments.