Supreme Court Denies Bail to Actor Darshan, Orders Fast-Track Trial

May 15, 2026

75 min

May 15, 2026 10:31

India Supreme Court refuses actor Darshan bail, orders fast-track trial

## Court Ruling

India's Supreme Court has denied bail to Kannada actor Darshan Thoogudeepa, who is involved in the Renukaswamy murder case. The court has instructed the Karnataka government to expedite the trial by examining 60 key witnesses within the next year.

## Case Background

The case revolves around the murder of Renukaswamy, whose body was discovered in Bengaluru last June. Allegations suggest that Renukaswamy was abducted and assaulted by a group linked to Darshan after sending inappropriate messages to actress Pavithra Gowda, a close associate of the actor.

## Trial Delays

The court expressed concern over the slow progress of the trial, noting that only 10 out of 272 witnesses had been examined since charges were framed last November. The bench, comprising Justices JB Pardiwala and Vijay Bishnoi, emphasized the need for the trial to proceed without unnecessary delays.

## Defense and Prosecution Stance

Darshan's defense team argued that the slow pace of the trial was unjustly extending his time in custody. They highlighted the absence of a permanent judge in the court handling the case as a factor contributing to delays. The Supreme Court has urged the Karnataka High Court to fill the vacant judge position promptly.

## Jail Conditions

During the hearing, Darshan's legal team raised concerns about inadequate prison facilities. The Karnataka government refuted these claims, asserting that all standard amenities for undertrial prisoners were being provided. The Supreme Court has directed jail authorities to ensure compliance with prison regulations regarding inmate facilities.

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