Actor Darshan Thoogudeepa, imprisoned in Renuka Swamy case, makes inappropriate gesture towards media upon release
Trigger warning: This article contains details about a murder which may be triggering for some individuals.
Actor Darshan Thoogudeepa’s arrest and alleged participation in the murder of Renuka Swamy has attracted significant attention in recent months. The actor, now transferred to a high-security prison in Bellary, made headlines when he defiantly gestured towards the media.
According to Deccan Chronicle, a viral video shows Darshan Thoogudeepa emerging from his cell to meet his wife Vijayalakshmi and brother Dinakar within a limited 30-minute timeframe. He is also allowed a separate slot to consult with his lawyers regarding the charge sheet for the case.
Upon spotting the media outside waiting to photograph him, Darshan was captured making the offensive gesture towards them. The video quickly circulated on social media, shocking viewers.
A few weeks earlier, a leaked photo of Darshan from Parappana Agrahara Central Jail sparked controversy, revealing special treatment for the actor despite his involvement as the second accused in a brutal murder case.
In response to the public outcry, the 24th Additional Chief Metropolitan Magistrate ordered Darshan’s transfer to a stricter facility in Bellary.
On September 10, 2024, the charge sheet for the Renuka Swamy case detailed Darshan Thoogudeepa’s admission to brutally assaulting the victim, leading to her death.
He confessed to striking Renuka Swamy with a wooden branch on the neck and chest, and also instructed his accomplice, actress Pavithra Gowda, to hit the victim with her shoes, causing severe injuries.
Renuka Swamy was discovered deceased in Bengaluru on June 8, 2024. Following investigation, Darshan Thoogudeepa was arrested on June 11, 2024, for his alleged role in the murder.
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