Karnataka: Govt writes to MEA, seeks cancellation of diplomatic passport of Revanna jr

The State Government has written to the ministry of external affairs (MEA) seeking cancellation of the diplomatic passport issued to Hassan MP Prajwal Revanna for dodging summons from the special investigation team (SIT) probing complaints of sexual abuse of women, against him.

The letter follows a special court issuing an arrest warrant against him, Home Minister G Parameshwara said on Tuesday.

The first-time MP is seeking reelection from Hassan as an NDA candidate, and fled the country a day after the April 26 polls.


Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, the home minister added, had already written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi calling for speedy cancellation of his passport.

The government asking for cancellation of the passport in accordance with the law was one thing. But a court has issued an arrest warrant now, and the government has followed up on its earlier letter with a fresh one, the minister said.

If the MEA were to cancel Revanna Jr's diplomatic passport, it would become impossible for the MP to stay on in a foreign country and would be forced to return, Parameshwara said. He also added that the MEA would have to respond to the state's communication now.

The SIT is probing complaints of sexual harassment alleged by the Hassan MP and widespread leaks of explicit videos days ahead of the polls.

On May 18, the special court trying cases involving elected representatives ordered an arrest warrant against Revanna Jr after the SIT made an application seeking the same.

The SIT has moved a step further in efforts to get the MP back in Bengaluru at the earliest after its look out notices and blue corner notice have not led to his return.