LAW FOR ALL
BENGALURU
The Karnataka High Court has directed the trial court to reconsider sexual assault charges against JDS MLA H.D. Revanna, while partially allowing his petition seeking to quash the case. A single-judge bench led by Justice M.I. Arun reviewed Revanna’s plea and ruled that certain charges should be examined again by the lower court.
The bench noted that the 42nd ACJM Court had earlier quashed the charge sheet filed under IPC Section 354, which deals with acts that outrage a woman’s dignity. However, the High Court said the complaint’s details fit under IPC Section 354A, which relates to sexual assault. The judge clarified that Section 354 does not apply in this situation, and the allegations point to sexual harassment rather than an act aimed at harming dignity. The bench added that the prosecution may challenge the order if necessary. A full copy of the order will be available soon.
The case dates back to April 28, 2024, when a complaint was filed at the Holenarasipur City Police Station against Revanna and his son, former MP Prajwal Revanna. A domestic worker alleged that Revanna sexually assaulted her when his wife was away and made inappropriate conversations with her daughter, causing fear and discomfort. She said she quit her job due to the harassment.
The complaint also included charges against Prajwal, whose alleged assault videos went viral online. The victim said the videos caused mental trauma and raised tensions within her family. She requested strong legal action, stating she feared for her safety.
In a related case, nine people—including Revanna and his wife Bhavani—were booked for allegedly abducting the victim. Revanna is the first accused and is currently out on bail.
