Renukaswamy murder: 3 accused get bail, Darshan and Pavithra Gowda are still in custody

In a significant development in the Renukaswamy murder case, three of the 17 accused have been granted bail after spending over 100 days in custody. This marks the first time that bail has been awarded to anyone involved in this high-profile case. The accused—R Keshavamurthy, V Karthik alias Kappe, and L Nikhil Nayak—are currently being held at the Tumakuru prison.

On Monday, the Karnataka High Court granted bail to Keshavamurthy, while Karthik and Nayak received bail from a city civil and sessions court later in the day. The bail was conditional, allowing them to be released under specific terms after serving significant time behind bars.

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These three individuals surrendered to the Kamakshipalya police on June 10, claiming they killed Renukaswamy due to a financial dispute. Their statements led to the arrest of 14 other accused individuals, including the well-known actor Darshan Thoogudeepa. In the case, Karthik is identified as accused no. 15, Keshavamurthy as accused no. 16, and Nayak as accused no. 17.

Despite their confession, the 3,991-page chargesheet submitted by the Kamakshipalya police did not find direct evidence linking Keshavamurthy, Karthik, and Nayak to the murder itself. Instead, they have been charged with attempting to destroy evidence. Specifically, they allegedly disposed of Renukaswamy’s body in a stormwater drain in Sumanahalli and provided false information to law enforcement officials.

The court proceedings continue for the other accused. Darshan’s bail petition hearing has been adjourned to September 27, while his friend Pavithra Gowda's hearing is set for September 25. Both remain in custody as investigations proceed.

The case revolves around the tragic murder of Renukaswamy, a pharmacy staffer from Chitradurga. He was reportedly kidnapped and murdered on June 8, and the crime came to light the following day when a security guard at an apartment complex discovered his body. The shocking nature of the crime has garnered significant media attention, stirring public interest and concern.

As the investigation unfolds, the focus remains on the actions of the remaining accused and the overall implications of the case. The involvement of a well-known figure like Darshan adds another layer of complexity to the proceedings. Public sentiment is divided, with many eager for justice while others express concern over the legal process and the handling of such sensitive issues.

The court’s decision to grant bail to the three accused indicates a careful examination of the evidence, or lack thereof, against them. The legal proceedings will continue to be closely monitored, especially as the hearings for Darshan and Pavithra Gowda approach.