Renukaswamy murder case: Darshan granted permission to travel nationwide
What's the story
In a major development, the Karnataka High Court has allowed Kannada actor Darshan Thoogudeepa, an accused in the Renukaswamy murder case, to travel across India. Earlier, he was barred from leaving Bengaluru and the jurisdiction of the session's court. The decision came after Darshan's counsel argued that his client needed to visit Delhi and other places as Supreme Court proceedings in the case were on. Earlier, the actor sought bail on health grounds.
Court appearance
Accused in Renukaswamy murder case appeared in court
On Tuesday, February 25, Darshan, his alleged partner-actor Pavithra Gowda, and 15 other accused appeared before a local Bengaluru court in accordance with their bail conditions. Advocate Sunil, who appeared for some of the other accused parties, alleged that his clients were being "pressured" by police to become approvers. He argued that the case should be fought on merit without any undue pressure from law enforcement.
Case adjournment
Court adjourned the matter to April 8
Responding to Sunil's allegations, the court said that if a petition is filed in this regard, it will be heard. The matter has been adjourned till April 8 for further proceedings. Darshan, Gowda, and the other accused were arrested on June 11, 2024, for allegedly kidnapping and brutally murdering Renukaswamy—a fan who had reportedly sent derogatory messages to Gowda out of anger over her relationship with Darshan.
Release and proceedings
Darshan's release and ongoing Supreme Court proceedings
After spending 131 days in custody, Darshan was released from prison on October 30, 2024. The Karnataka Police have challenged the bail granted to him and others in the Supreme Court. On January 24, the Apex Court issued a notice to Darshan, Gowda, and five others on an appeal petition filed by the Karnataka government challenging an order granting them bail in this high-profile murder case.