Bengaluru Court Rejects Darshan’s Plea for Transfer, Actor Breaks Down During Hearing
A Bengaluru court on Tuesday dismissed Kannada actor Darshan Thoogudeepa’s request to be shifted from Parappana Agrahara Central Prison to Ballari jail in connection with the Renukaswamy murder case. The ruling came from the 57th CCH Court, where Darshan appeared via video conference.
During the hearing, the actor, visibly distressed, broke down and made emotional statements that stunned the court. According to reports, Darshan pleaded with the judge, saying:
“I don’t want anything for anyone, please give me poison… It has been nearly a month since I saw sunlight. My hands are developing fungal infections… Life here has become unbearable.”
The presiding judge firmly rebuked the actor for his remarks, telling him: “You cannot say such things.” Darshan then nodded silently and refrained from speaking further.
Court’s Observations and Limited Relief
While the plea for transfer was rejected, the court allowed minor reliefs within the prison framework. Darshan was granted permission for limited movement within the prison premises and was allowed additional bedding in line with the prison manual, including extra pillows and bedsheets.
The court also noted that no violations of prison rules had occurred, and therefore, there was no compelling reason to shift the accused out of Bengaluru Central Prison.
Background: The Renukaswamy Murder Case
Darshan, one of Sandalwood’s biggest stars, was arrested on June 11, 2024, along with actress Pavithra Gowda and 15 others, for their alleged involvement in the brutal murder of Renukaswamy, a resident of Chitradurga.
- Allegations: Renukaswamy had reportedly sent abusive messages to Pavithra Gowda, who is said to share a close relationship with Darshan. This is believed to have triggered the chain of events leading to his murder.
- Arrest and Custody: Following investigations, Darshan was taken into custody and spent 131 days in jail.
- Bail Timeline:
- On October 30, 2024, he was released on interim bail.
- On December 13, 2024, the Karnataka High Court granted regular bail to Darshan and Pavithra Gowda.
- However, the Karnataka government challenged this order in the Supreme Court.
- On August 14, 2025, the Supreme Court cancelled the bail, ordering Darshan back to custody.
Since then, Darshan has been lodged at the Parappana Agrahara Central Prison in Bengaluru, where he has repeatedly complained of health and mental distress.
A High-Profile Trial in Sandalwood
The Renukaswamy case has shaken Karnataka’s film industry, with one of its most celebrated stars facing allegations of involvement in a gruesome murder.
The case has not only tarnished Darshan’s image but also brought intense public and media scrutiny on the actor’s personal life and associations.
As the legal battle continues, Darshan remains behind bars, with the court making it clear that his detention in Bengaluru prison will continue unless major developments arise in the trial.
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