Tension briefly prevailed near Bengaluru Central Prison on Monday after rumours spread that Kannada actor and murder accused Darshan Thoogudeepa had allegedly attempted suicide inside the prison premises.
However, senior prison officials later clarified that the reports were completely false and urged the public not to believe the rumours.
Prison authorities deny claims
According to prison officials, rumours regarding Darshan’s health and alleged suicide attempt had been circulating since Sunday night.
Officials from Parappana Agrahara Police Station reportedly contacted prison authorities to verify the claims after receiving multiple enquiries.
A senior prison official confirmed that no such incident had occurred and described the reports as baseless rumours.
DGP Prisons issues clarification
Alok Kumar, DGP of Prisons, also issued a clarification stating that the rumours were entirely false.
He said Darshan was doing fine and appealed to the public not to gather near the prison based on unverified information.
The clarification helped ease tension around the prison premises, where concern had spread following the circulation of the rumours.
Darshan seeks permission to meet family
Meanwhile, Darshan has reportedly sought court permission to meet his family inside the prison as his wedding anniversary falls on Tuesday.
Officials said the court is yet to decide on the request.
Darshan remains in judicial custody in connection with the high-profile murder case that has drawn significant public and media attention across Karnataka.