In a case that has gripped Karnataka’s public interest, jailed Kannada film actor Darshan is earnestly anticipating a decision on his bail plea as the Karnataka High Court prepares to hear his appeal. Scheduled for review on Monday, the proceedings are drawing significant attention from both media and fans, with the day’s outcome poised to impact the actor’s wish to be out in time for the Diwali festivities.
Darshan, who has been enduring severe back pain in prison, is defended by well-known criminal lawyer C.V. Nagesh. Previously unsuccessful in obtaining bail for Darshan at the lower court, Nagesh is expected to bring forward medical documentation to advocate for Darshan’s release, focusing on the actor’s critical health conditions and the urgent need for medical intervention. If the High Court denies this bail plea, insiders suggest that an appeal may be lodged to have Darshan transferred back to Bengaluru Central Prison from his current location.
The situation has generated heightened emotions among Darshan’s family members, especially his wife, son, and extended relatives, who have been awaiting his release since he was incarcerated four months ago. Fans of the actor are also eagerly watching developments unfold, holding on to hopes of a favorable outcome. Despite the severity of his back issues, which initially saw Darshan refusing medical assistance, the actor has undergone physiotherapy without experiencing any significant relief from the pain.
The Karnataka High Court had previously adjourned the bail hearing to October 28, with a bench headed by Justice S. Vishwajith Shetty set to deliberate on the matter. Nagesh, representing Darshan, has consistently emphasized the actor’s critical health needs, arguing for bail to facilitate surgery for the actor’s back condition.
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Darshan and his alleged accomplices, including Pavithra Gowda and fifteen others, were apprehended on June 11. The charges against them stem from a high-profile murder case involving Renukaswamy, an avid admirer of Darshan. Accusations swirl around alleged kidnapping and brutal murder of Renukaswamy from Chitradurga. The plot thickened when it was disclosed that Renukaswamy had purportedly sent offensive and obscene messages to Pavithra Gowda, incensed by Darshan’s relationship with her despite his marital status.
In a move that fueled public chatter, Darshan was relocated to Ballari prison following revelations of preferential treatment, dubbed ‘royal treatment,’ at Bengaluru Central Prison. The actor faces three FIRs linked to these offenses, and law enforcement officials have compiled an extensive 3,991-page charge sheet as of September 4, underpinning the weight of the case.
The legal defense team, doubling down on medical evidence, advances the argument that without prompt bail, Darshan’s health might deteriorate further, necessitating immediate surgical intervention. Nagesh, in making his argument, is aiming to convince the court of the compelling necessity for granting bail on humanitarian and medical grounds.
As the legal battle continues, the episode not only highlights the personal tribulations of a film star but also accentuates the complex intertwining of celebrity, law, and public perception. The ripples of this case have extended into cinematic circles, with industry affiliates and fans alike observing how the case could influence the dynamics within the Kannada film realm.
The hearing on Monday is poised to be crucial. For Darshan, a favorable decision could mean celebrating Diwali with his loved ones, shining light on his personal darkness; for the legal system, it represents a strategic test of balancing justice with empathy in a case tinged with public sentiment.
