Actor Darshan Challenges Murder Case Witness Move

Kannada actor Darshan Thoogudeepa has formally challenged the trial court's decision to allow accused No. 14, Pradosh, to become an approver in the Renukaswamy murder case. Filed before the Karnataka High Court, Darshan's petition raises legal and procedural objections to the order that granted Pradosh conditional pardon. He has requested a stay on this decision, particularly before Pradosh's statement is officially recorded as part of the proceedings.

The trial court, the 59th City Civil and Sessions Court in Bengaluru, had approved Pradosh's request for a pardon on August 25. Pradosh's testimony is anticipated to provide crucial insights into the alleged sequence of events, the disposal of evidence, and the involvement of other accused individuals.

However, the Karnataka High Court and the trial court have previously indicated that co-accused, including Darshan, do not possess a legal right to oppose pardon proceedings at that initial stage. Their opportunity to challenge the approver's testimony, such as through cross-examination, will arise when Pradosh gives evidence.

The broader case concerns the death of 33-year-old Renukaswamy, whose body was discovered in Bengaluru in June 2024. Allegations suggest Renukaswamy was abducted from Chitradurga and subsequently assaulted and killed, purportedly following offensive messages he sent to actor Pavithra Gowda.

Darshan Thoogudeepa, along with several others, faces accusations in this ongoing investigation. His latest film, 'The Devil,' received mixed reviews.