Daijiworld Media Network - Bengaluru
Bengaluru, Apr 9: A Bengaluru court, hearing the high-profile fan murder case involving Kannada actor Darshan, on Tuesday expressed strong displeasure over the actor’s absence from the proceedings.
Civil and sessions judge, taking serious note of the issue, made it clear that Darshan must be present for all future hearings without fail, stating that no excuses would be entertained henceforth.
Darshan’s legal counsel submitted an exemption petition, citing the actor’s back pain as the reason for his absence, and requested the court to grant relief from personal appearance.
Of the 17 accused in the brutal murder of Renukaswamy a fan from Chitradurga 16 were present, including prime accused Pavithra Gowda, Darshan’s partner.
The court adjourned the matter to May 20.
Meanwhile, Darshan has resumed work on his upcoming film 'Devil' and has been shooting in Mysuru and Rajasthan. Sources close to the actor revealed that his hectic schedule has worsened his back condition, and he is also expected to shoot in Hyderabad.
The case has been under intense public scrutiny since June 11, 2024, when Darshan, Pavithra, and 15 others were arrested on charges of kidnapping and murdering Renukaswamy.
According to police findings, the victim had allegedly sent offensive messages to Pavithra, upset over Darshan’s continued relationship with her despite being married to Vijayalakshmi.
Sources say Pavithra had been in conflict with Darshan’s wife over luxury possessions and public appearances, leading to frequent online spats. Renukaswamy, a vocal supporter of Vijayalakshmi, had publicly criticised Pavithra a move investigators believe ultimately led to his murder.
After spending 131 days in custody, Darshan was released on bail on October 30, 2024. The Karnataka High Court later permitted him to travel across the country. However, the Karnataka Police have since challenged the bail in the Supreme Court.
The apex court, while issuing notices to Darshan, Pavithra, and five others on January 24, directed them to appear before the lower court every month as part of their bail conditions.