Renukaswamy murder case: Victim's father surprised by actor Darshan's VIP treatment in prison

The father of Renukaswamy, a 33-year-old auto driver who was murdered in June, expressed deep dismay and shock after a picture of Kannada actor Darshan Thoogudeepa went viral showing him VIP treatment in prison.

Darshan is currently lodged in the Parappana Agrahara Central Jail in Bengaluru for the murder of Renukaswamy, a fan of the Kannada actor.

Renukaswamy's body was found near a flyover in Bengaluru on June 9. A police investigation had revealed that Renukaswamy was kidnapped by a gang at the actor's behest and later murdered after allegedly sending abusive messages to actor Pavithra Gowda, who was rumoured to be Darshan's partner.

Darshan and Pavithra Gowda were arrested by the police along with 15 others.

Reacting to the viral picture, Kashinatha Shivanagowdara, Renukaswamy’s father, urged the Karnataka government to take action against the actor.

“When Darshan asked for home-cooked food, it was not allowed. We have faith in the police and the judicial system. I am absolutely surprised how this could happen“This is shocking news for me. I request the government to investigate the case and take action,” Gowda said.

Shivanagowdara also demanded a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe against the Kannada actor.

“He (Darshan) does not feel guilty of making any mistake. We demand a CBI investigation into the murder case,” he added.

In the viral picture, Darshan is seen sitting in an open field inside the prison premises, relaxing with a drink and a cigarette. He is also seen in the company of some violent inmates.

A court in Bengaluru earlier this week extended the judicial guardianship of Darshan ThoogudeepaPavithra Gowda and 15 employees until August 28.

According to the autopsy report, Renukaswamy died of shock and bleeding due to multiple blunt injuries.