A saree concealed in the attic of a farmhouse proved to be the crucial evidence that led to former JD(S) MP Prajwal Revanna’s conviction in a high-profile rape case. On August 2, a court sentenced Revanna to life imprisonment and imposed a fine of ₹11 lakh, payable as compensation to the 47-year-old survivor, a domestic worker from Mysuru.
Investigators revealed that after committing the assault, Revanna took the woman’s saree — a garment that carried vital forensic clues. Instead of destroying it, he hid it in the attic of his farmhouse, believing it would remain undiscovered. However, his assumption backfired.
During the investigation, when questioned about the incident, the survivor disclosed that her saree was never returned. Acting on this lead, police searched the farmhouse and recovered the saree. It was sent to the Forensic Science Laboratory, where tests confirmed the presence of semen, and DNA analysis matched it to Prajwal Revanna.
This saree became a pivotal piece of evidence, reinforcing the survivor’s testimony and strengthening the prosecution’s case. Investigators said it was a decisive factor in ensuring justice was delivered.
In addition to the DNA proof, the survivor’s detailed account of the assault and the video evidence further helped build an irrefutable case. The conviction marks a significant step in holding powerful individuals accountable and delivering justice to survivors of sexual violence.