Actor Darshan, who has been under scrutiny for receiving preferential treatment in Bengaluru’s Central Prison, is set to be transferred to Ballari Central Prison. This move comes amid growing controversy and a petition from the Prisons and Correctional Services Department. Darshan will be the sole accused in the Renukaswamy murder case to be moved to Ballari, while the other nine co-accused will be distributed across several prisons in Karnataka.
The decision, issued by the 24th Additional Chief Metropolitan Magistrate, follows a viral photo and video that revealed Darshan allegedly receiving special privileges. In response, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has instructed the State police to implement measures to ensure equal treatment for all inmates.
Ballari Central Prison, which currently holds around 368 inmates out of its 800 to 1,000 capacity, is preparing a high-security cell for Darshan. This cell will be equipped with modern facilities, including water, toilet access, video conferencing for court appearances, and CCTV surveillance.
Meanwhile, Darshan’s co-accused will be relocated as follows: Pavan, Raghavendra, and Nadeesh to Mysuru Prison; Jagadish and Lakshman to Shivamogga; Dhanraj to Dharwad; Vinay to Vijayapura; Nagaraj to Kalaburagi; and Pradosh to Belagavi. Pavithra Gowda, the prime accused and Darshan’s associate, will remain at Bengaluru Central Prison for security and administrative reasons.
This move is part of a broader effort to address concerns about jail management and ensure that all accused are treated equitably.
