Kannada film star Darshan Thoogudeepa has filed a fresh bail application in the Supreme Court in connection with the Renukaswamy murder case. The apex court had earlier cancelled the bail granted to Darshan and other accused, including actress Pavithra Gowda, on August 14, 2025.
The fresh plea was submitted on April 29, 2026, seeking the court's intervention to release the actor on bail. The case pertains to the murder of Renukaswamy, a fan of Darshan, which has drawn significant media attention in Karnataka and across the country.
Background of the Case
The Renukaswamy murder case involves Darshan, Pavithra Gowda, and several others, who were arrested in 2024. The victim, Renukaswamy, was allegedly killed after he sent obscene messages to Pavithra Gowda. Darshan and the co-accused were initially granted bail by the Karnataka High Court, but the Supreme Court later revoked it, citing the seriousness of the offense and the need for a thorough investigation.
Supreme Court's Previous Order
On August 14, 2025, a bench of the Supreme Court set aside the bail granted to Darshan, Pavithra Gowda, and other accused, observing that the High Court had not adequately considered the gravity of the crime. The court directed them to surrender immediately, and they have been in custody since then.
In its order, the Supreme Court noted that the evidence, including call detail records and witness statements, indicated a prima facie case against the accused. The court also highlighted the need to ensure a fair trial without any interference.
Fresh Bail Plea
In the fresh bail application, Darshan's legal team has argued that the accused have been in custody for over 18 months and that the trial is likely to take a long time. They have also submitted that Darshan is a law-abiding citizen with deep roots in the community and poses no flight risk.
The plea further contends that the continuation of custody violates the actor's fundamental rights under Article 21 of the Constitution, which guarantees the right to life and personal liberty. The Supreme Court is expected to hear the plea in the coming weeks.
The case has sparked widespread debates about the influence of celebrities in the judicial system and the rights of the accused. Meanwhile, the prosecution has opposed the bail, arguing that the accused may tamper with evidence or influence witnesses if released.
