Renukaswamy murder: Actor Darshan soon to shift in a Bellary jail after controversy over receiving VIP treatment in Bengaluru jail

Kannada actor Darshan Thoogudeepa, currently in judicial custody in connection with a murder case, is set to be transferred from Bengaluru's Parappana Agrahara Central Jail to Bellary Jail. This decision comes after a controversy erupted over allegations that Darshan was receiving VIP treatment while incarcerated.

Darshan is one of 17 individuals arrested in connection with the murder of Renukaswamy, a 33-year-old man whose body was found near a stormwater drain in Sumanahalli, Bengaluru, on June 9. Renukaswamy, a fan of Darshan, had allegedly sent obscene messages to Pavitra Gowda, Darshan's girlfriend and co-accused in the case. The messages reportedly enraged Darshan, leading to the alleged murder of Renukaswamy.

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The controversy began when a photograph of Darshan inside the Parappana Agrahara Central Jail went viral on social media. The image showed the actor in a relaxed pose, holding a cup and a cigarette, alongside other inmates, including gangster Wilson Garden Naga and Darshan's manager Nagaraj. The image sparked outrage among the public and raised questions about whether Darshan was being given special privileges and accommodations within the jail.

Following the public uproar, a Bengaluru court ordered an investigation into the matter and subsequently decided to transfer Darshan to Bellary Jail to ensure that no further preferential treatment would be given.

The court's decision to transfer Darshan came after it was revealed that he had been receiving special facilities, such as home-cooked meals and personal bedding, which are not typically allowed for other inmates. This led to accusations that the actor was being treated differently due to his celebrity status.

In response to the allegations, Darshan challenged the court order that rejected his request for special provisions, arguing that all citizens, including undertrial prisoners, are entitled to basic rights such as a nutritious diet, regardless of their social or financial status. However, the Karnataka High Court emphasized that there should be no distinction based on an individual's social standing, and all inmates should be treated equally.

The news of Darshan's alleged preferential treatment has led to widespread criticism and calls for a fair investigation. Many people have expressed concern over the potential abuse of power and influence within the prison system, particularly in cases involving high-profile individuals.

Kashinath S Shivanagowdru, Renukaswamy's father, has demanded a thorough investigation by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) into the circumstances surrounding his son's murder and the alleged special treatment being provided to Darshan. He believes that only a transparent and impartial inquiry can bring justice to his family and ensure that those responsible are held accountable.

The controversy surrounding Darshan's case has highlighted the broader issue of inequality within the justice system, especially regarding the treatment of inmates based on their social or financial status. The incident has prompted discussions about the need for reform and stricter regulations to ensure that all prisoners are treated fairly and without bias.

As the investigation continues, the public and legal experts will be closely watching how the authorities handle the case and whether any further actions will be taken to address the alleged preferential treatment. The outcome of this case could have significant implications for the justice system and its approach to handling high-profile inmates in the future.