CH NEWS
BENGALURU
Former JD(S) MP Prajwal Revanna, serving a life sentence after a rape conviction, was allegedly found using a mobile phone inside Bengaluru prison, prompting action against jail officials.
According to sources, Crime Branch officials found Revanna with a mobile phone during a surprise raid. A case has been registered and an investigation launched to determine how the device entered the prison.
Jail authorities have suspended Assistant Superintendent Eeranna Rangapur for alleged dereliction of duty and security lapses. Jail Superintendent Ansuch Kumar has also been served a show-cause notice seeking an explanation.
The incident has renewed concerns over alleged preferential treatment of high-profile prisoners. Revanna was sentenced to life imprisonment last year after being convicted in a rape and intimidation case. He was also convicted for circulating videos of the sexual assault.
The latest development has also revived memories of actor Darshan’s alleged prison privileges in 2024, when photographs and videos showing him using a phone and socialising inside the prison surfaced. Several officials were subsequently suspended and Darshan was transferred to Ballari Central Prison.
Prajwal Revanna Phone Row: Key Facts
- Prisoner: Prajwal Revanna
- Status: Serving life imprisonment
- Incident: Allegedly found using mobile phone
- Action: Jail official suspended
- Further action: Superintendent served show-cause notice
- Probe: Crime Branch investigation underway
Kharge ordered surprise raid after prison lapses
Karnataka Home Minister Priyank Kharge said he ordered a surprise raid at Bengaluru’s Parappana Agrahara Central Prison after noticing administrative lapses during his recent visit. Around 100 Central Crime Branch personnel conducted the operation with Chief Minister D K Shivakumar’s approval, uncovering several violations, including prohibited items in inmates’ cells. Kharge said officials suspected of facilitating the violations have been suspended and warned of strict legal action. He said similar surprise raids would be conducted across prisons in Karnataka. A technical audit of prison digital infrastructure, including mobile-phone jammers, has also been ordered amid reports that some were not functioning properly. The Minister ruled out VIP treatment for inmates.