Kannada Actor Darshan Transferred To Bellary Jail Amidst Viral Photo Scandal: Report

Kannada actor Darshan Thoogudeepa, currently held in judicial custody in connection with a murder case, is being transferred to Bellary jail, according to NDTV. This move comes at the request of the Bengaluru Police, who have also sought the transfer of other individuals involved in the Renukaswamy murder case, along with several notorious criminals, from Parappana Agrahara Central Jail to various other facilities, as reported by news agency PTI.

The decision follows a recent controversy sparked by a viral photo showing Thoogudeepa enjoying a leisurely tea with history-sheeter Wilson Garden Naga inside Bengaluru’s Parappana Agrahara Central Jail. In the photo, Thoogudeepa is seen relaxed, holding a cigarette and a coffee mug while seated comfortably. Additionally, a video of the actor participating in a video call from the prison surfaced online, further fueling the controversy.

In response to these revelations, nine prison officials, including the Chief Jail Superintendent, were suspended on Monday for allegedly providing special privileges to Thoogudeepa, following an investigation.

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Addressing the media, Police Commissioner B. Dayananda revealed that three separate cases have been registered in connection with the prison incident. These cases are being investigated under the Prisons Act and the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). He noted that during a recent inspection by the Central Crime Branch, no incriminating evidence was found in the barracks. However, there are concerns that some items may have been moved before the inspection team arrived.

Dayananda also highlighted that Parappana Agrahara jail houses many notorious criminals, particularly those arrested under the Karnataka Control of Organised Crime Act (KCOCA). There are concerns that these individuals may engage in unlawful activities, prompting the police to request their relocation, along with those linked to the Renukaswamy murder case, to prevent further incidents.