The Supreme Court on Thursday cancelled the bail granted to Kannada actor Darshan in connection with the alleged abduction and murder of 33-year-old Renukaswamy, a fan accused of sending obscene messages to actress Pavithra Gowda.
The verdict, delivered by a bench of Justices J B Pardiwala and R Mahadevan, came after hearings were concluded and orders reserved on July 24.
Case details and allegations
Darshan, along with actress Pavithra Gowda and several others, faces serious charges over the June 2024 incident in Bengaluru. According to police, Renukaswamy, a resident of Chitradurga, was abducted after allegedly sending obscene messages to Pavithra on social media.
Authorities claim the victim was held in a shed in Bengaluru for three days, where he was brutally tortured. His body was later discovered in a drain, sending shockwaves across Karnataka and sparking widespread outrage.
Legal developments
The Supreme Court’s decision overturns an earlier order that had granted Darshan bail. The apex court had issued notices to Darshan, Pavithra, and other accused in January 2025 following a plea by the Karnataka government challenging the bail.
The cancellation of bail means Darshan could be taken back into custody, intensifying the legal battle ahead. Pavithra Gowda and other co-accused also remain under the scanner as the case continues.
Public and industry reactions
The case has deeply divided the Kannada film industry, with some standing by Darshan while others have called for strict legal action. Fans and the public have expressed mixed emotions, with social media discussions ranging from sympathy for the actor to demands for justice for the victim.
With the Supreme Court’s latest order, the trial is expected to move forward with renewed focus on evidence and witness testimonies.