Bengaluru, 14 AUG

The family of murder victim Renukaswamy welcomed the Supreme Court’s decision to cancel actor Darshan’s bail on Thursday, saying it restored their faith in justice.

The apex court directed authorities to take Darshan and the other accused into custody immediately and ordered the trial to be conducted expeditiously.

“Our faith in the government, judiciary and police have strengthened after the Supreme Court cancelled Darshan’s bail. We thank the authorities. Our aim is to see that the criminal is punished, which will bring peace to my son,” said Renukaswamy’s father, Shivanagouda. He added that the decision reinforced the principle that the law is equal for all, regardless of wealth or influence.

The judgment follows an appeal by the Karnataka government against the state high court’s December 13, 2024, order granting bail to Darshan and co-accused. Darshan, actress Pavithra Gowda, and several others are accused of abducting and torturing 33-year-old Renukaswamy, a fan who allegedly sent obscene messages to Pavithra. The victim was reportedly held in a shed in Bengaluru for three days before his body was recovered from a drain.

Security has been heightened at Ballari prison in anticipation of Darshan’s transfer. A high-security cell has been prepared, and the compound wall has been raised to 25 feet to prevent fan intrusion. Independence Day preparations are continuing alongside the enhanced security measures.