Published Sep 16, 2026 | 5:44 PM ⚊ Updated Sep 16, 2026 | 5:44 PM
Darshan was arrested for his alleged links in Renukaswamy murder case. (Facebook)
Renukaswamy murder accused actor Darshan has raised a series of fresh allegations against his co-accused Pradosh S Rao as the trial court reconsiders his plea seeking pardon and approver status in the case.
During the hearing, Darshan’s counsel Hashmath Pasha alleged that Pradosh had not voluntarily come forward to become an approver and claimed that he had been receiving unauthorised privileges in prison, including alleged access to another person’s mobile phone for outside communication.
The defence sought prison records and an inquiry into the allegations before a fresh order is passed on Pradosh’s approver plea, according to reports.
The development comes after the Karnataka High Court set aside the trial court’s August 25 order granting Pradosh conditional pardon and approver status over procedural irregularities. The HC sent the matter back to the trial court for a fresh order.
According to reports, Pradosh had sought pardon by offering to make a full and truthful disclosure about the alleged murder, disposal of evidence and the roles of the other accused. If the court grants him pardon and he complies with its conditions, he can be examined as a prosecution witness instead of facing trial alongside the other accused.
Meanwhile, Pradosh reportedly denied using a mobile phone in prison while claiming that he had instead been prevented from speaking to his family for a month. Pradosh’s counsel also accused Darshan’s defence of attempting to malign him.
Besides Pradosh, two other accused in the case –Ravishankar and Vinay– have also approached the trial court seeking approver status.
The case pertains to the allegedly gruesome murder of Renukaswamy, a 33-year-old pharmacy worker and an ardent fan of Darshan.
The incident happened on June 8, 2024. Renukaswamy was tortured and murdered by the actor and his associates for allegedly sending obscene messages to his female friend, believing she was responsible for issues in the Kannada superstar’s personal life.
According to police, the victim was taken to a shed in Pattanagere in Bengaluru, where he was subjected to torture and later killed. His body was recovered from near a stormwater drain in Sumanahalli, Bengaluru, on June 9, 2024.
(Edited by Fayisa CA)
