Ex-PM’s grandson faces arrest threat as lookout notice issued in sexual harassment case

PTC News Desk: Amidst allegations of sexual harassment, a lookout notice has been issued against Janata Dal Secular (JDS) MP Prajwal Revanna, grandson of former Prime Minister HD Deve Gowda.

The Karnataka Home Minister, G Parameshwara, declared that Revanna must promptly appear before the Special Investigation Team (SIT) conducting the inquiry, hinting at possible arrest if he fails to comply. Initially, Revanna had requested a seven-day extension to meet with investigators, a plea that was rejected by the SIT.

The controversy erupted when a woman accused Prajwal Revanna and his father, HD Revanna, of sexual harassment. The accuser, who reportedly worked as a cook at the Revannas’ residence, also alleged that Prajwal Revanna harassed her daughter through video calls. Disturbing visuals, purportedly involving Prajwal Revanna, have circulated widely online.

Minister G Parameshwara affirmed that both Prajwal Revanna and HD Revanna must present themselves for questioning or face arrest. Meanwhile, Prajwal Revanna’s lawyer, Arun G, argued for more time to address the complexities of the case, emphasising Prajwal’s commitment to cooperate with the investigation.

In response to the allegations, Prajwal Revanna has maintained his innocence, claiming that the videos are manipulated. In a statement shared on social media, he conveyed his cooperation with the CID inquiry and expressed confidence in the truth emerging.

The accusations have triggered a political maelstrom, especially in the midst of ongoing elections. With JDS aligned with the BJP, the allegations have become a focal point for the Congress’s attacks on the ruling party. Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s association with Prajwal Revanna and urged him to break his silence on the matter.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah, in turn, defended BJP’s stance against crimes towards women and questioned why the Congress-led government in Karnataka had not taken action earlier. He accused the Congress of politicizing the issue and allowing Prajwal Revanna to evade accountability.

The Revanna family holds significant influence within the Vokkaliga community, a key demographic in south Karnataka. The allegations come at a crucial time, as Lok Sabha seats with Vokkaliga voters recently went to polls on April 26, intensifying the political ramifications of the controversy.