Prajwal Revanna moves Karnataka HC again for bail in rape case, cites trial delay

Bengaluru, Jun 24 (PTI) Former JD(S) MP Prajwal Revanna once again approached the Karnataka High Court on Tuesday, seeking bail in the high-profile sexual assault and rape case registered against him.

The court had earlier denied his bail plea, citing the gravity of the allegations and the potential risk of witness tampering.

During the latest hearing, Senior Advocate Prabhuling K Navadgi, appearing for Revanna, argued that there has been a significant change in circumstances since the previous bail order.

He contended that the prolonged delay in proceedings before the trial court was sufficient reason to reconsider Revanna’s plea for bail.

Navadgi also pointed out that the complaint was lodged four years after the alleged incident. He argued that the survivor did not initially accuse Revanna under Section 376 of the Indian Penal Code (rape) and that the specific charges were introduced only during the recording of her statement.

While stating that Revanna had no intention of obstructing the trial, counsel maintained that continued incarceration was unjustified, particularly due to procedural delays.

However, the state government strongly opposed the bail request. It submitted that the delay was not on the part of the prosecution but rather due to Revanna’s conduct in court, including frequently summoning defence witnesses and allegedly behaving disruptively to slow down the process.

After hearing both sides, the HC adjourned the matter for further hearing at a later date. PTI COR JR ROH