Seven prison officials in Bengaluru have been suspended following an investigation into a viral photograph and video that suggest Kannada actor Darshan Thoogudeepa received special treatment while in custody. Karnataka Home Minister G Parameshwar confirmed the suspension of the officials and stated that a preliminary inquiry revealed their involvement. “The police have conducted an investigation, and based on initial findings, seven officers have been suspended. This is a serious security lapse, and further investigation is underway,” Parameshwar said.
The controversy erupted after a photograph of Darshan, who is currently in judicial custody at Parappana Agrahara Central Jail in Bengaluru in connection with the Renukaswamy murder case, was shared online. The image depicts Darshan sitting casually on a chair, holding a cigarette and a coffee cup, accompanied by three other individuals. Reports indicate that among those with him are Wilson Garden Naga, a criminal; Nagaraj, the actor’s manager and co-accused; and Kulla Seena, another inmate. Additionally, a video allegedly shows Darshan engaging in a video call.
This incident has sparked widespread outrage and criticism, with many condemning the preferential treatment Darshan appears to have received. Darshan, along with 16 others including his friend Pavithra Gowda, is in judicial custody in relation to the murder of Renukaswamy. The case has garnered significant attention due to Darshan’s celebrity status and the heinous nature of the crime. Renukaswamy, a fan of the actor, reportedly sent obscene messages to Gowda, which led Darshan to allegedly orchestrate the fan’s murder. Renukaswamy’s body was discovered near a stormwater drain next to an apartment on June 9.
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Renukaswamy’s father, Kashinath S Shivanagowdru, has demanded a thorough investigation and accountability for those involved. “Given the circumstances, a CBI probe might be necessary,” he said. He expressed his disbelief at the photograph, noting, “It looks like Darshan is living in a resort rather than a jail. He should be treated like any other prisoner, but this situation suggests otherwise.”
The investigation has also revealed that Raghavendra, a member of Darshan’s fan club, lured Renukaswamy to a shed in RR Nagar under the guise of a meeting with the actor. There, Renukaswamy was allegedly tortured and murdered. The post-mortem report confirmed that the cause of death was shock and hemorrhage resulting from multiple blunt injuries.
