Janata Dal (Secular) leader Prajwal Revanna has been expelled from the party following his conviction in a rape case involving a domestic worker. The decision came after a special court found him guilty of sexually assaulting the victim, who was employed at his residence. The case drew significant public attention and sparked outrage across political circles in Karnataka.
The incident came to light when the survivor filed a police complaint detailing years of alleged abuse and harassment. Investigations revealed substantial evidence including witness testimonies and forensic reports that corroborated the charges. The court proceedings, which lasted several months, concluded with Revanna receiving a pronounced sentence under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code pertaining to sexual offenses.
Political analysts view this expulsion as a strategic move by the JDS to distance itself from the scandal amid mounting pressure from opposition parties and civil society groups. Senior party leaders emphasized their zero-tolerance policy towards crimes against women in an official statement. The party has also initiated internal discussions about ethical reforms and stricter background checks for candidates.
The verdict has reignited debates about accountability among public figures and the safety of domestic workers in India. Women’s rights organizations have hailed the judgment as a landmark victory for survivors seeking justice against powerful individuals. Meanwhile, Revanna’s legal team has announced plans to appeal the conviction in higher courts, maintaining his innocence throughout the process.
This development occurs against the backdrop of upcoming state elections, where the JDS faces intensified scrutiny over its handling of the case. Opposition leaders have criticized the delayed action, questioning whether the expulsion reflects genuine moral responsibility or political expediency. The case continues to influence broader conversations about gender-based violence and institutional responses to such crimes in India.
