In a major development in the Renukaswamy murder case, Kannada actor Darshan Thoogudeepa and actress Pavithra Gowda were arrested on August 14, 2025, after the Supreme Court cancelled their bail, citing serious legal infirmities in the Karnataka High Court’s earlier order.
The apex court, led by Justices J.B. Pardiwala and R. Mahadevan, ruled that the bail granted to Darshan, Pavithra, and several co-accused was “a mechanical exercise of discretion” and posed a risk to the fair administration of justice. The bench emphasized that no individual, regardless of popularity, is above the law.
Following the verdict, Pavithra Gowda was taken into custody in Bengaluru, while Darshan was arrested from his residence in Hosakerehalli. Both are to be produced before the trial court for remand after medical examination.
The case involves the alleged abduction and murder of 33-year-old Renukaswamy, a fan who had reportedly sent obscene messages to Pavithra Gowda. Investigators claim the victim was confined in a shed in Bengaluru for three days in June 2024, tortured, and later found dead in a drain.
The Supreme Court also directed the Karnataka government to ensure that no special privileges are extended to the accused while in custody, warning of disciplinary action against jail officials if violations occur.
Darshan, Pavithra, and over a dozen others were initially granted bail in late 2024. The state government challenged the decision, leading to Thursday’s cancellation and renewed arrests. The trial is expected to proceed under close judicial scrutiny.
