Disciplinary action has been initiated against a police officer responsible for the security of Kannada actor Darshan Thogudeepa following allegations concerning the actor’s appearance while being transferred to Ballari Central Jail. Darshan Thogudeepa , who is facing charges in connection with the murder of his fan and auto driver Renukaswamy, was moved from Bengaluru’s Parappana Agrahara Prison to Ballari Central Jail on Thursday.
The transfer came amid controversy over a viral image of Darshan Thogudeepa , which showed him in the Parappana Agrahara Prison with three others, including a known criminal. In the image, Darshan Thogudeepa was seen in a relaxed pose, wearing a branded black T-shirt and sunglasses. The portrayal of Darshan Thogudeepa in a casual setting, holding a cigarette and coffee mug, along with a video of him allegedly on a video call from prison, sparked accusations of VIP treatment.
Upon his arrival at Ballari jail, Darshan Thogudeepa was seen wearing what was described as ‘sunglasses’. However, police sources clarified that these were actually power glasses, which are permitted for prisoners with eye issues. Despite this, the prison notice specifies that only cooling glasses, similar in appearance to sunglasses, are allowed. The discrepancy between the allowed eyewear and Darshan Thogudeepa’s appearance has led to scrutiny.
Earlier incidents included a viral photograph of Darshan Thogudeepa in a relaxed state at Parappana Agrahara Prison, which fueled public perception of preferential treatment. In response to these concerns, Bengaluru Police have formed three teams to investigate the allegations of special treatment.
On Tuesday, a Bengaluru court approved the transfer of Darshan Thogudeepa and his co-accused to separate prisons, with stringent security measures implemented at Ballari jail. Darshan Thogudeepa was arrested on June 11 for his alleged involvement in the murder of Renukaswamy, who was kidnapped, assaulted, and killed on June 9. This was purportedly done at Darshan Thogudeepa ‘s direction following offensive messages directed at actor Pavithra Gowda, rumored to be Darshan Thogudeepa ‘s partner. Investigations revealed Darshan Thogudeepa ’s direct involvement in the assault.
Judicial custody for Darshan Thogudeepa, Gowda, and other co-accused has been extended until September 9. The ongoing investigations and heightened security underscore the serious nature of the charges and the high-profile status of the case.
