In a significant turn of events in the ongoing investigation of Renuka Swamy's murder, Ravi, the driver implicated in the case, has provided critical insights to the police. This case, which has attracted substantial media attention due to the involvement of popular Kannada actor Darshan Thoogudeepa and his girlfriend Pavithra Gowda, has taken a new direction following Ravi's statements.
Ravi revealed to the police that he was instructed to take the fall for the murder of Renuka Swamy but refused to comply. He elaborated that Renuka Swamy, whose body was discovered later, did not anticipate the violent assault that awaited him. According to Ravi, Swamy was not forcibly taken but was persuaded by others to join them in the cab. The other accused assured Swamy that they would take him to meet Darshan and suggested he apologize for his social media comments against the actor's girlfriend, Pavithra Gowda.
Further details emerged from Ravi's account, describing how Renuka Swamy was transported from Chitradurga to Bengaluru, a journey of approximately 200 kilometers. Upon reaching Bengaluru, Swamy was taken to a shed in Kamakshipalya, where Darshan and his aides allegedly thrashed him with a belt and beat him with sticks until he lost consciousness. The assault, which resulted in multiple fractures and severe injuries, ultimately led to Swamy's death. His body, later discovered by a food delivery rider, bore signs of severe torture, and was being nibbled by dogs when found.
The autopsy report confirmed the brutal nature of the murder, citing shock and haemorrhage as the cause of death. The report identified 15 wounds on Swamy's body, with injuries to the head, abdomen, chest, and other parts. Additionally, his head had been rammed into a mini-truck parked at the shed, further adding to the fatal injuries. Police seized the truck and other instruments used in the torture, including wooden logs, a leather belt, and a rope. Allegations have surfaced that Darshan attempted to plant three men to take the blame for the murder, offering them ₹5 lakh each.
This case has also led to significant political and social ramifications. The Karnataka Home Minister, G Parameshwara, refuted allegations of preferential treatment being given to Darshan during his detention, dispelling rumors of special facilities such as being served 'Biryani'. Parameshwara asserted that Darshan is receiving the same treatment as any other accused, stating, "It is not possible for police to give Biryani and royal treatment to the accused. It is not done and it should not be done."
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar have also denied any undue influence over the investigation. Reports suggesting that a state minister was attempting to protect Darshan were strongly denied by Shivakumar, who emphasised that no political pressure was being applied, stating, "There is no pressure from anyone... neither our Home Minister or anyone else is involved in it, we are not recommending anything, we don't know anything."
The murder case has sparked widespread outrage, leading to protests across Karnataka. In Kalaburagi, the Jangam Samaj organized a massive demonstration demanding severe punishment for Darshan and his associates. Protesters marched from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Circle to the District Deputy Commissioner's Office, where they burned Darshan's portrait in condemnation of the murder.
Adding a political dimension to the case, BJP leader CP Yogeshwar claimed that Shivakumar and his brother, former MP DK Suresh, had plans to field Darshan as a Congress candidate in the upcoming Channapatna Assembly by-election. This by-election is pending following the election of JD(S) leader and former Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy to the Lok Sabha.
As the investigation continues, the involvement of a high-profile actor and the alleged political implications ensure that the case remains in the public and media spotlight. The revelations by Ravi have provided a new perspective on the case, suggesting premeditated efforts to manipulate the narrative and shield the principal accused from the consequences of their actions. The police are expected to delve deeper into these new leads to unravel the full extent of the conspiracy behind Renuka Swamy's murder.
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