BANGALORE: Seven police officials from Parappana Agrahara Central Jail have been suspended following the circulation of a photograph showing Kannada actor Darshan Thoogudeepa, who is in judicial custody for the Renukaswamy murder case, in a seemingly relaxed setting. Karnataka Home Minister Dr. G. Parameshwar confirmed the suspensions.
The suspended personnel include Jailers Sharanappa and Prabhu, Assistant Jailers Tippeswamy and Shrikanth, Head Wardens Venkatapathy Korti and Sampath Kumar, and Warden Basappa Geli. The viral photo depicts Darshan seated casually, holding a cigarette and coffee cup, in what appears to be an open area. The image also features Wilson Garden Naga, a known rowdy sheeter, and other inmates Nagaraj (Darshan's manager and co-accused) and Kulla Seena. Additionally, a video showing Darshan on a video call has been shared online.
It remains unclear whether the photo and video were taken inside the jail or if they are from a different time. There is also speculation that the materials might have been altered.
In response to the photo, Kashinath S. Shivanagowdru, father of the deceased Renukaswamy, has called for an investigation and severe punishment for those responsible. He expressed his shock at the image, questioning if Darshan was genuinely incarcerated or receiving special treatment. "The photo suggests he is being treated like he's on vacation rather than in prison," Kashinath remarked. He urged Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and police officials to ensure justice and bring peace to his son's soul, expressing faith in the authorities despite his grief.
The opposition BJP has also voiced concerns, with BJP leader and MLC N. Ravi Kumar demanding clarification from the Home Minister on whether Parappana Agrahara Jail is functioning as a "prison or a palace." Kumar criticized the alleged preferential treatment and called it a sign of poor administration. He urged the government to thoroughly investigate and take action to prevent such incidents.
Darshan, along with 16 others, including his associate Pavithra Gowda, is in judicial custody related to the murder of Renukaswamy. Bengaluru Police Commissioner B. Dayananda has stated that the final report in the case will be submitted to the court once all forensic reports are complete.
Reports indicate that Renukaswamy, a fan of Darshan, allegedly sent inappropriate messages to Gowda, which led to Darshan's involvement in the murder. Renukaswamy's body was found near a stormwater drain on June 9, with the post-mortem revealing death from shock and hemorrhage due to multiple blunt injuries. Gowda, accused number one, is said to be a key instigator in the crime.
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