Bengaluru: Kannada actor Darshan Thoogudeepa, currently in judicial custody in connection with the murder of a fan, has been transferred to another prison following a major controversy. The uproar began after a photo went viral on social media last Sunday, showing Darshan enjoying coffee and smoking cigarettes in the company of three other men, including a notorious rowdy sheeter, on the lawn of Parappana Agrahara Central Jail in Karnataka. The image sparked outrage, leading to allegations of special treatment being given to the actor while in custody.
In the viral image, Darshan is seen sitting comfortably on a chair, holding a cigarette and a coffee mug, which many interpreted as a sign of preferential treatment. Adding fuel to the fire, an alleged video of Darshan engaging in a video call from jail also surfaced, further escalating the controversy.
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah Orders Inquiry
The situation caught the attention of Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, who responded swiftly by ordering an inquiry into the matter. “We have demanded an inquiry into the Darshan case,” the Chief Minister told reporters, as quoted by PTI. Following the inquiry, nine jail officials, including the chief superintendent of Parappana Agrahara jail, were suspended for their alleged involvement in facilitating the actor’s special privileges.
When asked if Darshan would be transferred to Bellary jail, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah said, “The police will decide where to send him.” His statement made it clear that the decision on Darshan’s transfer would be left to the authorities.
Kannada Actor Darshan Thoogudeepa Faints in Jail Amid Allegations of Murdering Fan Renuka Swamy
Government Appoints IPS Officer for Review
Home Minister G Parameshwara also addressed the issue, stating that an IPS officer has been appointed to review the management of all prisons in the state. “The government cannot decide to shift Darshan to another jail,” Parameshwara said, clarifying that such decisions are made by jail authorities in consultation with the court and other officials. He emphasized that the government does not directly interfere in these matters, especially when the individuals involved are under trial.
Parameshwara further explained that CCTV footage had captured several lapses within the jail, including prisoners being allowed to move freely from one barrack to another. The footage reportedly shows Darshan and his companions enjoying privileges like chairs, coffee, and cigarettes, which led to the suspension of nine jail officials. “Nine officials have been suspended, they will be replaced. Even the chief superintendent and superintendent have been suspended,” Parameshwara added.
Jail Officials Face Consequences
The suspended officials are facing serious repercussions for their involvement in the incident. The government has taken these steps based on evidence captured on CCTV, which showed the improper actions of the jail staff. Three FIRs have been registered against Darshan under various sections of the Prison Act and the Indian Penal Code (IPC), further complicating his legal troubles.
Transfer to Another Jail Likely
The controversy surrounding Darshan has led to the Bengaluru police seeking his transfer, along with the other accused in the Renukaswamy murder case, to a different facility. The decision is expected to be made soon, as the authorities aim to prevent any further incidents of preferential treatment within the jail.
The viral photo, which showed Darshan in the company of known criminals like Wilson Garden Naga, Nagaraj (the actor’s manager and co-accused), and Kulla Seena (a convict in a murder case), has not only stirred public outrage but also highlighted the need for stricter regulations within the prison system. The controversy continues to unfold, with the Karnataka government taking swift actions to address the lapses and ensure that justice is served fairly and transparently.
