Karnataka Home Minister G. Parameshwara expressed hopes on Thursday that there will be no lapses in Bellary prison regarding actor Darshan. Authorities recently transferred Darshan from Bengaluru jail amid a luxury treatment scandal.
Darshan, who faces charges in a kidnapping and murder case, moved to Bellary jail on Thursday. This shift followed a controversy over photos and videos on social media that revealed he was receiving luxury treatment in Bengaluru Central Jail. In response, the authorities suspended several staff members from Bengaluru Central Jail and filed three FIRs.
When questioned about the precautions at Bellary jail, the Home Minister stated, “The prison authorities are responsible for managing Darshan’s conditions. It is not the government’s role to oversee every detail. We have issued general instructions, but the specifics are up to the prison officials.”
He added, “We are hopeful that no lapses will occur at Bellary.”
Also Read: Kannada Actor Darshan Shifted Following Luxury Treatment In Bengaluru Jail
Parameshwara clarified that he was unaware of the details behind Darshan’s transfer. “The authorities decided to move him to a different facility. They have also chosen to relocate 8 to 10 other inmates based on their discretion,” he said.
The shift came after a Bengaluru court approved the move, prompted by a photograph showing Darshan with other inmates in the jail’s outdoor area. Bengaluru Police Commissioner B. Dayananda confirmed that the police had requested the transfer from the court.
When asked if there was any specific reason for the transfer, Parameshwara responded, “There is no particular reason. The decision was made for security reasons, and the prison authorities acted independently.”
He also addressed concerns about any potential influence from Housing Minister B.Z. Zameer Ahmad Khan, who has links to Bellary. Parameshwara dismissed these claims, stating, “The involvement of district ministers does not affect the legal process. Actions will follow the law.”
Regarding other transfers, Pavithra Gowda, Darshan’s partner and a key accused, will stay at Bengaluru Central Prison. Authorities will also move other associates of Darshan to various jails across the state, with specific placements including Mysuru, Shivamogga, Dharwad, Vijayapura, Kalaburagi, and Belagavi. Anukumar and Deepak will remain in Bengaluru Central Prison, while four other accused had previously been relocated to Tumakuru prison.