Supreme Court Slams Karnataka HC Over Bail to Actor Darshan in Renukaswamy Murder Case

SC Questions HC’s Discretion in Darshan Bail Order

On Thursday, a bench comprising Justice JB Pardiwala and Justice R Mahadevan expressed serious concern over the December 13, 2024, bail order, stating:

“Such a mistake may be acceptable from a trial court judge, but not from a High Court judge. Did the High Court issue such orders in other murder cases as well?”

The Supreme Court has reserved its decision on cancelling Darshan’s bail, while clarifying it will not comment on conviction or acquittal at this stage.

Why SC Is Unhappy with Karnataka HC

The apex court took issue with the language used in the High Court’s order, which claimed there were insufficient grounds for arrest in a murder case. The SC noted this as highly irregular and emphasized that judicial discretion must be exercised cautiously in serious crimes.

Earlier, on July 17, the Supreme Court had already questioned the bail order, suggesting the HC had not exercised its discretion properly.

Case Background: Who Was Renukaswamy?

The case dates back to June 9, 2024, when the body of Renukaswamy, a 33-year-old fan of Darshan, was found near an apartment in Kamakshipalya, Bengaluru. Investigation revealed:

• CCTV footage showed Darshan and Pavitra Gowda near the crime scene.
• Both their mobile phones were active in the area between 11 PM and 3 AM.
• June 11, 2024: Police arrested Darshan, actress Pavitra Gowda, and 17 others. In total, 19 people have been arrested in connection with the case.

The Motive Behind the Murder

Police investigations indicate that Renukaswamy had been harassing Pavitra Gowda with repeated messages, urging her to stay away from Darshan. When she ignored him, Renukaswamy allegedly sent objectionable texts and threats.

Authorities claim Pavitra instigated Darshan to “teach him a lesson.” The actor and his associates allegedly kidnapped Renukaswamy, took him to a godown, tortured him, and beat him to death.
After the killing, Darshan’s aides changed their blood-stained clothes at a nearby store.

Darshan Granted Bail, Now Under SC Review

Darshan was granted bail by the Karnataka HC in December 2024, a decision now under Supreme Court scrutiny after the Karnataka government filed a petition challenging it.