Seven Prison Officials Suspended Over VIP Treatment of Actor Darshan in Bengaluru Jail

Seven prison officials in Bengaluru have been suspended after an initial inquiry revealed involvement in providing special treatment to Kannada actor Darshan Thoogudeepa. Special treatment was provided in the custody. Karnataka Home Minister G Parameshwar called it a “serious security lapse” and stated that a deeper investigation is underway.

The whole controversy started when a photo and video of Darshan, lodged in Parappana Agrahara Central Jail in connection with the Renukaswamy murder case, went viral. Darshan was in a relaxed position and holding a cigarette with a coffee cup. In another video, Darshan was having a video call. 

The incident has sparked widespread criticism, with many condemning the preferential treatment seemingly afforded to the actor Darshan, along with 16 others, including his friend Pavithra Gowda, is under judicial custody for the murder of 33-year-old Renukaswamy. The case has garnered significant attention, not only due to Darshan’s celebrity status but also because of the brutal nature of the crime. Police sources indicate that Renukaswamy, a fan of Darshan, was allegedly killed after sending obscene messages to Ms. Gowda, which reportedly provoked Darshan.

Kashinath S Shivanagowdru the father of  Renukaswamy has demanded a thorough investigation. He expressed his disbelief over the apparent luxury Darshan seems to be enjoying in jail. “It looks more like a resort than a prison,” he said.

The investigation revealed that Raghavendra who is a member of Darshan’s fan club, tricked Renukaswamy into coming to a location in RR Nagar by falsely promising a meeting with the actor. The victim was tortured and killed there. The post-mortem report confirmed that Renukaswamy died from shock and hemorrhage caused by multiple blunt injuries.