Bengaluru: Home Minister G Parameshwara has said that the police team investigating the murder case allegedly involved by Sandalwood star Darshan Thoogudeepa has been given a free hand and they would take suitable action against him.
Parameshwara said that he (Darshan) has been arrested in Mysuru and brought to Bengaluru, an inquiry is going on. Based on the outcome of the inquiry action will be taken. He said law is equal for all, be it Darshan or someone else. No one should take law into their own hands, he said.Â
Darshan and 12 of his close aides were arrested in connection with murder case of Renukaswamy, a 33-year old resident of Chitradurga, who was also the actor’s fan.Â
The victim, Renukaswamy had allegedly made comments on the social media account of Pavithra Gowda, a close friend of the star. He allegedly accused Pavithra of creating rift in the family of Darshan. He allegedly used indecent words against Pavithra on social media while expressing his anger, said sources.Â
The Home Minister said that if the victim had used indecent language against the female friend of the star, he should have given police complaint and action would have taken against him immediately. The alleged murder could have been avoided, he said.Â
He continued, “Now that the incident has occurred and a life is lost, nothing can reverse it. However, the police will take necessary legal actions against the perpetrators.”
Regarding allegations that Darshan used his political connections to evade consequences, the Minister clarified, “To my knowledge, no one has attempted to influence the investigation. The case will proceed according to the law.”
Parameshwara assured that government interference is not an issue, stating, “The police have full autonomy to take necessary actions in line with the law.”
When asked about support for Renukaswamy’s family, he mentioned he would discuss the matter with Chief Minister Siddaramaiah.
Responding to a question about the involvement of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), Parameshwara said there was no need for CBI intervention as the suspects are already known and 13 arrests have been made.
He also mentioned that the police would investigate whether Renukaswamy was a habitual offender and would decide independently whether to open a rowdy sheet against Darshan.
Parameshwara recalled that in 2011, Darshan was arrested for allegedly assaulting and threatening his wife. He was released on bail, and the couple later resolved the issue, leading to the withdrawal of the case.
