News Brief
Former PM HD Deve Gowda
Former Prime Minister and Janata Dal (Secular) chief HD Deve Gowda has issued a stern warning to his grandson, Prajwal Revanna, the accused in a sexual harassment case, to return to the country and surrender to the police.
Gowda further emphasised that Revanna should face the harshest punishment if the accusations are proven true as per a report by Hindustan Times.
This warning comes amidst Karnataka government's request for revocation of Revanna's diplomatic passport, which is currently being processed by the external affairs ministry.
On 2 May, the ministry confirmed that Revanna traveled to Germany on a diplomatic passport but stated that they did not facilitate his visa.
In a two-page open letter titled “My Warning To Prajwal Revanna,” the 91-year-old politician stated that he was unaware of his grandson's alleged activities.
He continued, "I cannot convince people that I was unaware of Prajwal's activities or that I have no desire to shield him. I cannot convince them that I am not aware of his movements or his foreign trip. I believe in answering my conscience. I believe in God, and I know the almighty knows the truth.”
Deve Gowda further warned Prajwal, “I can only issue a stern warning to Prajwal to return from wherever he is and surrender to the police. He should subject himself to the legal process. This is not an appeal, it is a warning.”
Gowda also told Prajwal that ignoring the family’s advice would lead to total isolation and also stressed that he will not try to influence the investigation in any manner.
Meanwhile, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has also written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, seeking the passport's cancellation. Earlier, the SIT issued lookout circulars, and Interpol issued a "Blue Corner Notice" to locate the MP.