In a major legal development, the Supreme Court of India has cancelled the bail granted to Kannada superstar Darshan Thoogudeepa in the high-profile Renukaswamy murder case, overturning the Karnataka High Court’s earlier order.
The bench of Justices JB Pardiwala and R Mahadevan termed the High Court’s decision as having “serious infirmities” and warned that it could influence the trial process and witnesses. The Supreme Court stressed that such decisions must be handled by the trial court after proper examination of evidence, not through a premature bail order.
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| Supreme Court Cancels Darshan's Bail |
Key Highlights of the Ruling
The High Court’s order was described as a “mechanical exercise of power”, almost amounting to a “pre-trial acquittal”.The Supreme Court reminded that no one is above the law, regardless of their celebrity status.
A stern warning was issued to prison authorities: no “five-star” or special treatment should be given to Darshan or any other accused in the case. Any such indulgence would result in immediate suspension of responsible officials.
The case involves the abduction, torture, and murder of 33-year-old Renukaswamy, allegedly over obscene messages sent to actress Pavithra Gowda, a co-accused alongside Darshan.
Renukaswamy’s body was reportedly discovered in a drain near Bengaluru in June 2024, after being allegedly held in a shed for three days.
Background of the Case
The murder case has gripped Karnataka since June 2024, not only because of the brutality of the alleged crime but also due to the involvement of one of Sandalwood’s biggest stars. The victim, Renukaswamy, had allegedly sent offensive messages to Pavithra Gowda, triggering a violent reaction that led to his death.
The Karnataka government had appealed the High Court’s bail order, arguing that releasing Darshan at this stage could intimidate witnesses and influence the trial. The Supreme Court agreed, stating that the fairness of the trial was paramount.
FAQ's
1. Why did the Supreme Court cancel Darshan Thoogudeepa’s bail?
The Supreme Court found the Karnataka High Court’s bail order to be legally flawed, calling it a “mechanical exercise of power” that could prejudice the trial and intimidate witnesses.
2. What is the Renukaswamy murder case?
It is a 2024 criminal case involving the alleged abduction, torture, and killing of 33-year-old Renukaswamy after he reportedly sent obscene messages to actress Pavithra Gowda.
3. Will Darshan get any special treatment in jail?
No. The Supreme Court has explicitly warned against giving Darshan or any co-accused special or “five-star” treatment in custody. Officials violating this directive will face suspension.
4. Who else is accused in the case?
Alongside Darshan Thoogudeepa, actress Pavithra Gowda and several others are co-accused in the murder case.
5. What happens next in the trial?
Darshan will remain in judicial custody, and the trial court will proceed with hearing witness testimonies and examining evidence.
