In the midst of the Parliamentary election in Karnataka, the sexual exploitation case involving incumbent Hassan MP and Janata Dal (Secular) candidate Prajwal Revanna has drawn considerable attention. The incident has put the National Democratic Alliance (NDA), of which the JD(S) is a part, under scrutiny.
While the alliance partners allege that the Congress’ focus on the case is primarily to harm the already vulnerable JD(S), leaders from both parties express confidence in the continuation of their partnership. However, the precise nature of the alliance will only become clear after the election results on June 4.
According to sources within the JD(S), former Chief Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy has engaged in multiple conversations with Union Home Minister Amit Shah and BJP President J.P. Nadda since the case emerged. Kumaraswamy is said to have provided Shah with updates on the developments.
Despite the embarrassing and damaging situation for the party, sources indicate efforts to minimize the fallout. Kumaraswamy’s declaration that neither the BJP nor Prime Minister Narendra Modi is involved in the scandal is seen as a strategic move. Kumaraswamy, along with his father and the party, has repeatedly distanced themselves from the incident.
JD(S) sources believe that the Congress has amplified the accusations against Prajwal to mitigate the negative impact on the party following the murder of Neha Hiremath during the third phase of polling. The BJP, however, has attempted to exploit the unfortunate incident for electoral gains by injecting a communal angle.
BJP sources maintain that the alliance will remain unaffected as the party aims to secure Vokkaliga votes in the long term. Sources emphasize that it is advantageous for the BJP to stand by the JD(S) during this challenging period. However, the JD(S) has been advised to refrain from publicly defending Prajwal.
Regarding the allegations against former BJP MLA Preetham Gowda’s alleged involvement in distributing pen drives containing videos of Prajwal Revanna, BJP sources suggest that the Gowda family is unlikely to pursue action against him through the party leadership at this time.
