Today, On 16th June, During bail plea hearing in the Karnataka High Court, Prajwal Revanna said, “My right under Article 21 is encroached, I need protection,” urging the court to consider his prolonged custody and lack of trial progress.
Bengaluru: The Karnataka High Court on Monday reviewed the bail application of former Member of Parliament Prajwal Revanna, who is currently in judicial custody related to a high-profile rape case.
The proceedings were overseen by Justice S R Krishna Kumar.
At the start of the hearing, the Additional State Public Prosecutor (ASPP) representing the Karnataka government strongly opposed the bail request, asserting,
“I challenge this bail petition.”
Read Also: Denied Bail To Ex MP Prajwal Revanna In Rape Cases: Supreme Court
Senior Advocate Prabhuling Navadgi, representing Prajwal Revanna, contended that the allegations do not pertain directly to his client.
Clarifying that Revanna is not the primary accused in the case. He stated,
“Allegation about an incident that happened 5 years ago. mainly against accused 1. I am accused 2,”
Navadgi referenced previous court decisions, noting,
“Earlier bail rejected only on ground that I may abscond.”
The state emphasized the gravity of the allegations, with the ASPP responding,
“There are 4 cases against you.”
In response, Navadgi pointed out the legal actions taken by another accused, stating,
“Accused 1 came before this court and got stay.”
He also raised concerns about the extended detention and delays in the trial, arguing,
“My client is under continued incarceration. State is making no effort for speedy trial, 100 witnesses to be examined.”
Read Also: No Bail for JD (S) MP Prajwal Revanna in Sex Tapes Case
To further support his argument, the state representative informed the bench,
“SC has rejected your bail.”
The court appeared cautious about granting bail at this time.
Justice Krishna Kumar remarked.
“No relief may be granted but let’s see other factors in this matter.”
Navadgi passionately argued that the delay is infringing upon his client’s constitutional rights, asserting,
“My right under article 21 is encroached, I need protection.”
As the discussions continued, the ASPP requested a postponement, stating,
“Adjourn it till 20th June.”
However, Navadgi urged the court to address the matter sooner, citing the urgency,
“List this on coming Friday. I am in a very difficult situation, my lord. The state is sleeping over this.”
After considering both arguments, the judge directed the registry accordingly and ordered,
“Relist on Friday.”
The Karnataka High Court will resume later this week to further address Revanna’s bail request amid serious allegations and increasing public attention.
Prajwal Revanna is the primary accused in four cases filed after the online circulation of over 2,900 clips depicting the sexual assault of numerous women, including on social media platforms.