Supreme Court Cancels Bail for Kannada Actor Darshan in Renukaswamy Murder Case
New Delhi, August 14, 2025 – In a significant development in the high-profile Renukaswamy murder case, the Supreme Court of India has overturned the bail previously granted to Kannada film actor Darshan Thoogudeepa, his partner Pavithra Gowda, and five other co-accused. The decision, pronounced on Thursday by a bench comprising Justices J.B. Pardiwala and R. Mahadevan, has sent shockwaves through Karnataka’s film industry and reignited public discourse on justice and accountability. The court’s ruling set aside the Karnataka High Court’s order from December 13, 2024, citing serious legal flaws and emphasizing that no individual, regardless of their stature, is above the law.
Background of the Case
Darshan, a prominent figure in the Kannada film industry, along with actress Pavithra Gowda and 15 others, was arrested on June 11, 2024, in connection with the brutal murder of 33-year-old Renukaswamy, a fan from Chitradurga. According to police reports, Renukaswamy was allegedly abducted, held in a shed in Bengaluru for three days, tortured, and killed after reportedly sending obscene messages to Pavithra Gowda. His body was later discovered in a drain, prompting widespread outrage and media scrutiny. The police charge sheet, filed in September 2024, lists Gowda as the prime accused and Darshan as the second accused, alleging that Renukaswamy’s actions were perceived as a trigger for the crime, possibly linked to Darshan’s marital discord.
Darshan was initially granted temporary bail citing health issues, followed by full bail by the Karnataka High Court in December 2024. However, the Karnataka government challenged this decision, arguing that the bail order was flawed and that the accused posed a risk of influencing witnesses and derailing the trial. The Supreme Court’s intervention came after the state’s appeal, with notices issued to Darshan, Gowda, and others on January 24, 2025.
Supreme Court’s Ruling
The Supreme Court’s decision to cancel the bail was grounded in a scathing critique of the Karnataka High Court’s order. Justice Mahadevan stated, “The order fails to record any special or cogent reasons for granting bail under Sections 302 and 34 of the IPC. Instead, it reflects a mechanical exercise of discretion formed by significant omission of legally relevant facts.” The bench highlighted that the High Court’s premature examination of witness statements and alleged contradictions was inappropriate at the pre-trial stage, asserting that such matters should be evaluated by the trial court during cross-examination.
The court further noted that granting bail in such a “serious case” without adequately considering the nature and gravity of the offense, the accused’s role, and the potential for interference with the trial constituted an unwarranted exercise of discretion. “The well-founded allegations of witness intimidation, coupled with compelling forensic and circumstantial evidence, further reinforce the cancellation of bail,” the bench added, invoking its extraordinary jurisdiction under Section 439 of the CrPC and Article 14 of the Constitution, which guarantees equality before the law.
Justice Pardiwala emphasized the broader implications of the verdict, stating, “This judgment conveys a strong message that the justice delivery system at any level should ensure that the rule of law is maintained. No man is above the law or below it.” The court also issued a stern warning against special treatment for the accused in custody, noting reports of “five-star treatment” in jail. “The day we come to know that the accused are being provided special facilities, the first step will be to place the jail superintendent under suspension,” Justice Pardiwala declared, signaling a crackdown on prison irregularities.
The Supreme Court directed that Darshan, Pavithra Gowda, and the five other accused be taken into custody immediately and ordered the trial court to expedite witness examinations and evidence hearings. The bench described the verdict as a “landmark judgment” and instructed authorities to distribute copies to all High Courts and state governments to reinforce the principle of equal justice.
Reactions from Renukaswamy’s Family
The family of the deceased, Renukaswamy, expressed profound relief at the Supreme Court’s decision. Kashinath S. Shivanagowdru, Renukaswamy’s father, spoke emotionally to reporters, saying, “My wife informed me about the cancellation of Darshan’s bail. This development has strengthened our belief in justice. We have faith in the judiciary and the law.” He thanked the Karnataka government and authorities for appealing the High Court’s decision, adding, “This is a message to all those who indulge in crime.”
Renukaswamy’s mother, Rathnaprabha, echoed similar sentiments, stating, “Everyone has to bow before the verdict of the Supreme Court. With this verdict, our belief in getting justice for my son’s murder has strengthened.” His wife, Sahana, emphasized equality before the law, saying, “I have faith that those who committed the crime will be punished. I have left the matter to God.” The family’s statements reflect a renewed hope in the judicial process, which had been shaken when Darshan was initially granted bail.
Public and Fan Reactions
The ruling has sparked polarized reactions, particularly on social media platforms like X. Darshan’s loyal fanbase expressed disappointment, with many pledging unwavering support. One user posted, “Then, now, and forever, we fans are always with him,” while another wrote, “Let’s wait for the good time. Good time or bad time… always with our Darshan DBoss.” However, others praised the judiciary, with one user stating, “First Prajwal Revanna and now Darshan — my trust in the judiciary and Karnataka Police is increasing day by day.” The split in public sentiment underscores the case’s high-profile nature and its impact on Darshan’s public image.
Implications for Darshan and the Legal Process
The cancellation of bail is a significant setback for Darshan, who had resumed public appearances, including foreign trips, after his release. Sources indicate that security at Ballari prison has been tightened, with a high-security cell prepared for his potential transfer. The prison’s compound wall has been raised to 25 feet to prevent fans from gathering, as they had done previously. The Supreme Court’s directive for a swift trial suggests that the legal proceedings, which have gripped Karnataka for months, may soon reach a resolution.
Legal experts believe the ruling could set a precedent for handling high-profile cases, reinforcing the judiciary’s commitment to impartiality. The court’s criticism of prison authorities and its call for systemic reforms also highlight ongoing challenges within the justice system, including allegations of preferential treatment for influential inmates.
Conclusion
The Supreme Court’s decision to cancel Darshan’s bail marks a pivotal moment in the Renukaswamy murder case, reaffirming the principle that no one is above the law. As the accused return to custody and the trial progresses, the case continues to captivate public attention, raising questions about justice, celebrity influence, and the integrity of the legal system. With the court’s directive for an expedited trial, all eyes are now on the judicial process to deliver justice for Renukaswamy and his grieving family.
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