Kannada actor Darshan is in jail for almost two years now. He was arrested by the Bengaluru police from Mysuru in June 2024. According to police investigations, Renukaswamy, a resident of Chitradurga, was reportedly abducted and brutally assaulted in June 2024. His body was later recovered from a drain in Bengaluru, triggering a high-profile criminal probe.
It was alleged that the victim had sent objectionable and abusive messages on social media to actress Pavithra Gowda, who is closely associated with Darshan. This reportedly angered the actor and his associates.
However, Renukaswamy’s wife denied claims and said, “My husband called me on June 8 afternoon. If my husband had sent derogatory messages on social media, he should have been given a warning. What was the need to kill him. Whether he is an actor (Darshan) or a star, I want justice.”
Police claim that Darshan, along with a group of aides, conspired to abduct Renukaswamy and subject him to severe physical torture. Investigators believe the victim was held at a private location where he was assaulted over a sustained period. Darshan was arrested in connection with the case after several suspects reportedly confessed and named him as a key conspirator. His bail plea was also rejected multiple times.
In December 2024, the Karnataka High Court granted Darshan regular bail in the Renukaswamy murder case. However, later in 2025, the Supreme Court of India cancelled his bail, agreeing with the state’s challenge. Following this, he was taken back into custody.
But while Darshan is still in jail, he has now been accused of harassing co-accused. It was recently reported by NDTV that the actor “has been kicking co-accused in the case while they are sleeping and talking to them rudely.” Troubled with this, both the co-accused have now asked the authorities to shift them to Chitradurga prison.
Reportedly, Darshan has become restless in jail and has been asked to follow rules properly. Not just this, he also stands in line by himself to get food and is also asked to clean the toilet.
Meanwhile, Darshan is also objecting to the release of an upcoming movie Boss. The film was scheduled for release on April 14. However, its release was halted after a plea was filed by Darshan alleging that it draws inspiration from the ongoing Renukaswamy Murder case.
As reported by Live Law, Darshan and his wife have alleged that the audio and visuals of the movie’s teaser were portrayed in such a manner that any normal viewer would associate the teaser to the criminal case filed against Darshan. The films’ director has denied any direct connection of his film to the Renukaswamy murder trial. The matter is now in court and is scheduled to be heard on May 2.
