A day after prominent film star Darshan and his 12 associates were placed under six-day custody, the police on June 12 transported the accused to the Pattanagere shed for a spot inspection. This location is significant as it was revealed to be the site where 33-year-old Renukaswamy was tortured to death on June 8.
The movement of the accused to the shed aimed to clarify and ascertain the involvement of each person in the gruesome murder. Upon arrival, the police meticulously recorded their statements, aiming to piece together the exact sequence of events and identify the weapons used in the brutal torture and subsequent murder of Renukaswamy. Under tight security, Darshan, known as Accused No. 2, and Pavithra Gowda, designated as Accused No. 1, were among the 17 people taken to the scene for this inspection.
Kannada cinema’s flamboyant actor, Darshan, often referred to as a “Challenging Star”, now finds his image marred as new detail emerges in this murder investigation, casting him potentially as a “Controversial Star”. His association with Pavithra Gowda adds further intrigue and complexity to the case, raising questions about their relationship and the motive behind their actions.
Those involved, including Darshan and Pavithra Gowda, face severe charges under Section 302 of the Indian Penal Code for murder, and Section 201 for causing the disappearance of evidence or providing false information to conceal the offence. The gravity of these charges signifies the seriousness with which law enforcement is treating this investigation.
Earlier, police actions included seizing two vehicles, one being a red SUV allegedly used by Darshan to visit the site of the crime. CCTV footage retrieved from nearby locations showcased the red SUV heading towards the Pattanagere shed, corroborating Darshan’s presence at the scene. Alongside the SUV, police found and seized a liquor bottle, and from another car, they recovered a handbag suspected to belong to Ms. Gowda, a close associate of Darshan.
As crowds gathered near the stormwater drain where Renukaswamy’s body was discovered, the police conducted a thorough spot mahajar (inspection) in Bengaluru on June 12, 2024.
. This process involved cross-verifying evidence with the confessions and statements of the accused.
Meanwhile, the hunt continues for four other suspects who allegedly provided substantial logistical support and are now absconding. Initial inquiries reveal that the accused abducted Renukaswamy as a means to “impress Darshan”. This saw the victim being viciously assaulted. It’s believed that Darshan himself participated in this assault during his visit to the shed before leaving the location. The continuous assault by other accused eventually led to Renukaswamy’s death.
Subsequent events unfolded as the other associates contacted Darshan to inform him of Renukaswamy’s demise. Allegations suggest that Darshan instructed his associates, Nandish, Nikhil, and Keshavamurthy, to dispose of the body and then surrender to the authorities. To further complicate matters, Darshan purportedly promised to “take care of their families” and offer them a sum of ₹5 lakh.
Despite this, the surrender of the trio the following day led to significant developments. Police investigations and call record analyses resulted in a major breakthrough in the case, exposing deeper connections and roles played by the accused. A senior police officer emphasized that the investigation is now focusing on locating the rope and wooden pieces used to inflict fatal torture on Renukaswamy.
This high-profile case continues to garner widespread attention, with the implications deeply affecting the Kannada cinema industry and Darshan’s widespread fanbase. The accusations and emerging details are a stark morass, hinting at a dark underbelly that exists beneath the glitz and glamour of celebrity life.
Law enforcement’s relentless pursuit for the remaining suspects and the investigation’s progress promise to keep the public eye riveted, as many hope for swift justice for Renukaswamy. In Karnataka, and particularly within the Bangalore crime and celebrity circuits, this case has struck a chord and exposed vulnerabilities, urging a closer examination of those living in the limelight.
