Darshan Challenges Court's Decision in Murder Trial of Fan
Darshan's Legal Battle Continues
Photo: @ians_india/X
Bengaluru, September 7: Kannada film star Darshan, currently embroiled in the trial concerning the murder of fan Renukaswamy, has approached the Karnataka High Court to contest a ruling from the 59th City Civil and Sessions Court (CCH) that denied his request for in-person attendance during the trial.
In his writ petition, Darshan is urging the High Court to mandate his physical presence in the trial court while witness testimonies are being recorded.
This petition is expected to be reviewed by the High Court Bench in the coming days.
Previously, the trial court dismissed Darshan's request for his physical presence, citing security issues that would necessitate a significant police presence and potentially lead to overcrowding in the courtroom.
The court also referenced past incidents where similar arrangements disrupted court operations.
To date, statements from 23 witnesses have been documented in the ongoing trial.
In his petition, Darshan asserts his right to hear and observe witness testimonies directly, arguing that witnesses should provide their statements in the presence of the accused.
He has raised concerns about the inadequacies of the video-conferencing technology being utilized for the trial, claiming that outdated equipment at both Bengaluru Central Prison and the court has resulted in frequent technical difficulties.
These issues have hindered his ability to fully comprehend witness statements and communicate effectively with his legal team during the proceedings.
Darshan emphasizes that he has been unable to provide necessary guidance to his lawyers or voice objections while witness testimonies are being recorded.
Consequently, he is requesting that jail authorities facilitate arrangements for his physical presence in court during witness testimonies.
Darshan Thoogudeepa, along with his partner Pavithra Gowda and 15 others, is on trial for the alleged abduction, torture, and murder of 33-year-old fan Renukaswamy in June 2024.
Renukaswamy was reportedly killed after sending inappropriate messages to Pavithra Gowda. He was abducted, tortured in a Bengaluru shed, and his body was disposed of near a stormwater drain.
The trial court has granted a conditional pardon to accused Pradosh, who agreed to testify against the others involved in the crime.
Darshan is also contesting the trial court's decision to allow Pradosh to become an approver. Recently, Pavithra Gowda filed a petition requesting a transfer to a different prison barrack due to health issues and allergies.
Additionally, the Supreme Court has revoked Darshan's bail, ordering his re-arrest without any special privileges as the trial continues in Bengaluru.