WhatsApp, Netflix found on phone in rape convict Prajwal Revanna’s Bengaluru jail cell

A mobile phone was discovered in the cell of former Hassan MP Prajwal Revanna, currently held at Bengaluru’s Parappana Agrahara Central Prison, sparking concerns over security measures and treatment of high-profile inmates. According to Central Crime Branch (CCB) officials, the Android 5G smartphone was found hidden under Revanna’s bed in the barrack he shares with fellow convict Prathap Rai.

The device, examined by investigators, contained various social media apps and streaming services like WhatsApp, Instagram, Facebook, Netflix, and Amazon Prime Video, raising questions about its usage for communication and entertainment purposes within the high-security prison environment.

A leaked video purportedly shows Revanna engaging in a phone conversation inside his cell, further intensifying scrutiny of prison security protocols. The broader CCB operation aimed at locating prohibited items in barracks of several high-profile convicts, including actor Darshan, his girlfriend Pavithra Gowda, and Revanna himself.

During the search, around 10 mobile phones, chargers, and a pen drive were reportedly seized. The Parappana Agrahara police have registered a fresh First Information Report (FIR) in connection with this incident.

Prathap Rai has been designated as accused No. 1, while Revanna is designated as accused No. 2 in the ongoing investigation. Authorities are actively pursuing the route through which the prohibited device infiltrated the prison and identifying the individuals responsible for supplying or using it. In response to the discovery, Director General of Prisons Alok Kumar ordered disciplinary action, with Assistant Superintendent Eeranna Rangapur suspended for alleged dereliction of duty and Jail Superintendent Anshu Kumar issued a show-cause notice.

Prajwal Revanna, grandson of former Indian Prime Minister H.D. Deve Gowda, is serving a life sentence following his conviction in 2025 for raping a domestic worker. This latest development has reignited discussions about prison surveillance and security measures, suggesting a potential network facilitating the supply of restricted devices to inmates.