MEA explains diplomatic passport use amidst Prajwal Revanna controversy; Rahul Gandhi demands Modi's apology

NEW DELHI: Ministry of External Affairs has justified that NDA candidate and JD(S) leader Prajwal Revanna from Karnataka's Hassan, who is facing allegations of sexual harassment, left the country using a diplomatic passport. Prajwal has not sought political clearance and no visa of any kind has been issued. Diplomatic passport holders do not need a visa to travel to Germany, and it cannot be revoked without a court order, as per the provisions of the Passport Act. External Affairs Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated that the ministry has not yet received an order to cancel the passport.

This explanation comes amid opposition allegations that the central government helped Prajwal enter Germany. Meanwhile, Prajwal's ex-driver Karthik released a video stating that he had no involvement in the crimes and is reportedly in Malaysia. Prajwal had earlier responded, alleging that fake videos were being circulated.

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, urging him to take steps to bring Prajwal back to the country. Prajwal Revanna is the grandson of former Prime Minister HD Deve Gowda and son of former Karnataka Minister HD Revanna.

Prajwal has been suspended from the party after the issue became controversial. Following the circulation of thousands of videos allegedly depicting sexual harassment of many women, the Karnataka Police formed a special investigation team to conduct the investigation. A lookout notice was issued against Prajwal yesterday. Meanwhile, the Bengaluru Sessions Court will hear the anticipatory bail plea filed by Prajwal's father HD Revanna in the sexual assault case today.

Rahul Gandhi, Congress leader, alleged at a rally in Karnataka's Shivamogga that the incident was a gang-rape, claiming about 400 women were tortured and recorded. Despite this, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP leaders are purportedly still supporting the accused. Rahul Gandhi also demanded that Modi and BJP leaders apologize to every woman in the country. Union Home Minister Amit Shah responded by stating that it was the Congress-ruled Karnataka government that should have taken faster action. Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar also demanded that Amit Shah visit the victims.