Prajwal Revanna Case: 39 Charged in Explicit Video Leak; Complaint Alleges Omissions

Top Summary

• What happened: A special investigation team (SIT) filed a chargesheet against 39 individuals for allegedly circulating explicit videos and photographs linked to the Prajwal Revanna sexual abuse case.
• Why it matters: This case has significant political ramifications, potentially influencing voter sentiment and exposing alleged corruption within political circles.
• What changes for people: Those accused face legal proceedings, and the public gains insight into the alleged misuse of technology for political manipulation.
• Who is affected: The accused, Prajwal Revanna, voters, political parties (JD(S), BJP, Congress), and victims of sexual abuse.

Chargesheet Filed Against 39 in Revanna Case

A special investigation team (SIT) has filed a chargesheet in Hassan, naming 39 people for allegedly circulating explicit videos and photographs connected to sexual abuse allegations against former MP Prajwal Revanna.

The chargesheet was presented before a court on Wednesday. The case originates from a complaint filed on April 23, 2024, by Poornachandra Tejaswi MG, Revanna's election agent.

Details of the Complaint

Tejaswi alleged that "photos and videos carrying morphed images of the JD(S) candidate" were being disseminated via pen drives and WhatsApp to sway voters against Revanna. The police initially registered a case under the Information Technology Act, 2008, and the Indian Penal Code (IPC).

The investigation was later transferred to the SIT formed by the Karnataka government to investigate multiple sexual abuse claims against Revanna.

Findings of the SIT Investigation

The 13,712-page chargesheet details the SIT's examination of 52 individuals. Material evidence was reportedly found against all 39 now accused.

Naveen Kumar N R, also known as Naveen Gowda, is listed as the first accused. Other notable names include Karthik N (Revanna's former driver), Harish S N (Revanna's auditor), and Devaraje Gowda G (a lawyer with BJP ties).

Evidence and Political Links

Investigators claim that the accused procured approximately 70 pen drives to distribute the explicit content. The SIT traced at least one purchase back to a UPI transaction made by Harish, using supporting purchase records as technical evidence.

The investigation involved examining 277 witnesses and conducting forensic analysis of digital materials. Some of the accused are linked to local units of the Congress and the BJP.

Revanna's Conviction and Complainant's Concerns

Since Prajwal Revanna is already convicted, he was not named in this particular chargesheet, according to a prosecution official. He was arrested on May 31, 2024, upon returning from Germany.

On August 2, 2025, a special court in Bengaluru sentenced Revanna to life imprisonment for the rape of a former house help. Three other cases are pending.

Despite the chargesheet, Poornachandra Tejaswi MG expressed dissatisfaction, claiming crucial names were omitted.

"The authorities should reveal the kingpin of the case. The mastermind of the case should be identified and brought before people,"

he said.

 

Calls for Further Investigation

Tejaswi insists on an additional chargesheet, demanding that the names of influential figures be revealed. He emphasized the need for an unpressured investigation and offered to provide evidence in court. He also requested witness protection.

Devaraje Gowda, one of the accused, criticized the investigation, denying any wrongdoing. He alleged a political motive behind the SIT's actions.

 

"Even though the state government has formed an SIT, there has been an attempt to politically finish off a family. Whoever is guilty, they should bow before the law and face punishment,"

he stated.

 

Allegations of Missing Links

Devaraje Gowda raised questions about the probe, alleging D K Shivakumar's involvement and questioning how the pen drive reached a private channel. He also mentioned an audio of L R Shivaramegowda discussing the pen drive distribution.

Gowda claims Karthik Gowda is the kingpin, and that names like Pritam Gowda (a BJP leader) are missing. He plans to file a writ petition in the high court to investigate the officers' conduct.

What to Watch Next

The court proceedings against the 39 accused will unfold, revealing further details about the alleged conspiracy. Any additional chargesheets or investigations into the claims made by both the complainant and the accused will be closely monitored for further developments in this politically charged case.