Ex-MP Prajwal Revanna Moved to General Cell After Phone, Pen Drive Found

Former Member of Parliament Prajwal Revanna, currently serving a sentence for a rape conviction, has been relocated from a special accommodation to a standard prison cell. This change occurred after a search by the Central Crime Branch (CCB) uncovered a mobile phone and a pen drive within his barrack at Parappana Agrahara Central Jail in Bengaluru.

What Happened

The devices found in Revanna's possession contained obscene videos. This discovery triggered an inquiry into how the mobile phone and pen drive entered the jail and reached his specific living quarters. Previously, Revanna occupied a "VIP cell," which has been described as special accommodation for high-profile inmates, often involving separate living spaces, enhanced furnishings, and more lenient visitor access. He has now been moved to a general cell where he will share facilities with approximately 20 other inmates and a single toilet. He is also required to wear the standard prison uniform and undertake work in the jail library.

Key Facts

• Former MP Prajwal Revanna was moved from a VIP cell to a general cell in Parappana Agrahara Central Jail, Bengaluru.
• The relocation followed the discovery of a mobile phone and a pen drive in his barrack.
• The seized devices contained obscene videos.
• Revanna's former accommodation was shared with another undertrial prisoner, Pratap Roy, who reportedly assisted him.
• Jail superintendent Anshukumar was asked to provide an explanation for the lapse.
• Assistant superintendent Iranna Rangapur was suspended for dereliction of duty.
• Prisons and correctional services DGP Alok Kumar ordered an investigation into how the phone and pen drive entered the jail.
• The investigation is examining potential involvement of jail officials.
• Authorities had previously issued warnings to Revanna regarding prison rules.
• The search of actor Darshan's cell did not yield any mobile phones or similar devices.
• SIM cards, including those from Andhra Pradesh, have been found within the jail despite security measures.
• Home minister Priyank Kharge stated that action would be taken against responsible officials regardless of their rank.

Background

The "VIP cell" at Parappana Agrahara has been a subject of discussion, with past reports detailing preferential treatment for influential prisoners. These arrangements have reportedly included separate living spaces, improved furnishings, provisions for outside food, private cooking facilities, and relaxed visitor access. The current action against Revanna signifies a departure from such arrangements. Separately, jail officials are facing repercussions, with the jail superintendent asked to explain the oversight and the assistant superintendent suspended. A broader investigation is underway to determine the extent of official complicity in facilitating the presence of banned items within the prison premises.