Prosecution Accuses Darshan and Gowda of Delaying Renukaswamy Murder Trial

As of October 27, 2025, the prosecution in the Renukaswamy murder case has accused the defense of deliberately delaying the trial, despite clear directions from the Supreme Court to conduct proceedings expeditiously. Kannada actor Darshan Thoogudeepa and his associate Pavitra Gowda are the main accused in the case, along with five others.

In August 2025, the Supreme Court had cancelled the bail granted to the seven accused and directed that the trial be completed swiftly. However, the prosecution claims that instead of cooperating, the accused have been filing multiple discharge petitions and procedural applications to stall the framing of charges. Despite nearly 20 hearings since mid-August, the arguments on the framing of charges have not progressed.

The prosecution has also noted that Accused No 2, actor Darshan, had filed various applications seeking special facilities in jail and a court inspection of the prison. While the authorities confirmed that Darshan was already receiving all facilities as per the prison manual, the court still directed the District Legal Services Authority to visit the central prison. The DLSA's report dated October 17 confirmed that all facilities were being provided and termed Darshan's allegations as false.

The prosecution argues that these actions are intended only to delay the trial and prevent compliance with the Supreme Court's direction to conduct proceedings on priority. The case pertains to the murder of Renukaswamy, a fan who was allegedly abducted, assaulted, and killed in June 2024.