Kannada actor Darshan, accused in the Renukaswamy murder case, appeared via video conference from Bellary Jail in the 24th ACMM court in Bangalore on Monday.
The court extended the judicial custody of Darshan Thoogudeepa, Pavithra Gowda, and 15 others until September 12. The group faces charges related to Renukaswamy’s murder. Due to the accused being housed in different prisons across the state, the 24th Additional Chief Metropolitan Magistrate court conducted the proceedings through video conferencing. Darshan, who is currently in Ballari prison, was transferred there from Parappana Agrahara Central Jail.
This transfer followed court approval after a photo emerged showing Darshan socializing on the prison lawn, sparking public outrage. The image depicted him holding a cigarette and coffee mug in a relaxed state, and a video also surfaced showing him on a video call from prison. Nine prison officials, including the Chief Superintendent of Parappana Agrahara jail, were suspended for “lapses” regarding alleged preferential treatment given to Darshan. Three FIRs have been filed, including one against Darshan, under sections of the Prisons Act and the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.
