Thousands Protest for the Arrest of JD(S) MP Prajwal Revanna Over Sexual Abuse Allegations
Thousands of people, including women, social activists, farmer groups, Dalit organizations, sexual minorities, writers, and civic groups, took to the streets in a protest march demanding the immediate arrest of Janata Dal (Secular) MP Prajwal Revanna. He stands accused of sexually abusing multiple women.
The ‘Hassan Chalo’ March
Organized by Naaveddu Nilladiddare Karnataka, a network fighting gender-based violence, the ‘Hassan Chalo’ march proceeded from the Hemavathi statue to the Hassan deputy commissioner’s office.
Background on Prajwal Revanna
Revanna, 33, is the grandson of JD(S) patriarch and former prime minister H D Deve Gowda. He is also the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) candidate from Hassan in the upcoming 2024 Lok Sabha elections. Following the release of obscene videos showing him allegedly abusing several women, Revanna reportedly fled to Germany on April 27 using a diplomatic passport. The first FIR was filed against him on April 28 after a victim came forward to report the abuse.
Revanna’s Return and Legal Actions
Revanna is expected to arrive in Bengaluru late Thursday night after leaving the country following the second phase of Lok Sabha polls on April 26, during which Hassan also voted. Protesters are demanding his immediate arrest and protection for the women allegedly abused by him. The Special Investigation Team (SIT) investigating the case will likely arrest him upon arrival.
Voices from the Protest
Revathi, one of the protesters, emphasized the importance of the rally in encouraging women to speak up against violence. She said, “This solidarity rally with victims is crucial to encourage women to speak up and stand up against the violence they have been subjected to. The protest symbolizes the public’s anger against the mental terrorism by the Revanna family that has gripped Hassan for long.”
S Varalakshmi, a labor activist, called for severe punishment for Revanna to deter others. “Revanna should be punished most extremely so that it serves as a wake-up call to other men who exploit women for pleasure. During the Lok Sabha elections, BJP leaders visited Neha Hiremath’s family in Hubballi after her murder, but why has no one from the BJP stood by the women of Hassan who are victims of Revanna’s atrocities?” she questioned.
Protesters’ Demands
The protesters demanded the arrest, prosecution, and punishment of those who publicly shared the victims’ identities through pen drives and social media. They also called for the appointment of special technical officers by the cyber police department to remove inappropriate videos and photos from the internet.