The Renukaswamy murder case has taken a shocking turn with revelations about actor Darshan's involvement. According to reports, after disposing of Renukaswamy's body, Darshan performed a 'puja' at his wife Vijayalakshmi's residence in Hoskerahalli before leaving for Mysore. This development has added a new layer of complexity to the case, already fraught with allegations and counterclaims.
On June 9, in the early hours, actor Darshan allegedly visited his wife’s home in Hoskerahalli after disposing of Renukaswamy's body. The Times of India reported that Darshan performed a 'puja' at Vijayalakshmi's residence before heading to Mysore, where he was later arrested on June 11. This act of performing a religious ritual after committing such a heinous crime has raised many eyebrows and led to intense scrutiny from both the public and the media.
The background of the case involves Darshan's alleged plan, along with his friend and co-star Pavithra Gowda, to murder Renukaswamy. Reports suggest that the motive behind the murder was to punish Renukaswamy for sending obscene messages to Pavithra. On June 8, Renukaswamy was reportedly abducted by Raghavendra, a fan of Darshan, from Chitradurga and taken to a shed in Bengaluru’s Kamakshipalya area. There, he was brutally beaten and tortured. After his death, his body was dumped into a canal at Kamakshipalya.
The case took a further twist when Vijayalakshmi, Darshan’s wife, was summoned to Annapoorneshwari Nagar police station to give her statement. She was reportedly questioned for five hours about her knowledge of the kidnapping and murder. Vijayalakshmi was also asked about Darshan's visit to her residence after the murder and his footwear, which was recovered from her place. Additionally, Darshan’s costume assistant, identified as Raju from Attiguppe, allegedly gave her some of the actor’s belongings, including clothes and footwear, after the incident.
The investigation has revealed disturbing details about the planning and execution of the crime. It is alleged that Darshan and Pavithra Gowda meticulously planned the murder, using their influence and connections to carry out the abduction and subsequent killing of Renukaswamy. The brutality of the crime and the involvement of a popular actor have made this case a sensational one, capturing widespread media attention.
The Karnataka government has also been drawn into the controversy. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah addressed the media on June 19, stating that he was not under any pressure from ministers or MLAs to shield Darshan in the case. "There is a rumour doing rounds that there was pressure on me, which is not true. There is no pressure. Neither from a minister nor any MLA (to favour Darshan). These are all far from the truth," Siddaramaiah clarified. He further added that he had no information on changing the Special Public Prosecutor appointed by the government for the trial.
As the investigation progresses, more details are likely to emerge about the circumstances leading to the murder and the involvement of other individuals. The case has already seen significant developments, including the arrest of several suspects and the collection of crucial evidence. The police are continuing their efforts to piece together the events and bring all those involved to justice.
The Renukaswamy murder case highlights the dark side of celebrity life and the extent to which some individuals may go to settle personal scores. It also raises important questions about the influence of powerful individuals and the challenges faced by law enforcement in handling such high-profile cases. As the legal proceedings continue, the public remains keenly interested in the outcome and the implications it may have for the justice system.
Meanwhile Darshan's custody has been extended to July 22.
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