August 14, 2025 — The Supreme Court of India has revoked the bail of Kannada actor Darshan Thoogudeepa and six others accused in the murder of 33-year-old Renukaswamy, underlining that fame or public standing does not place anyone above the law.
Renukaswamy, a resident of Chitradurga, reportedly became a target after posting offensive comments on social media related to Pavithra Gowda, a friend of Darshan. The posts allegedly suggested that Gowda had interfered in the actor’s personal life. Following this, Renukaswamy was kidnapped, mistreated, and eventually killed, drawing widespread public attention.
The Karnataka High Court had previously granted bail to Darshan and his co-accused, but the Supreme Court overruled this decision, terming it an “improper exercise of discretion.” Exercising its powers under the Criminal Procedure Code, the apex court ordered the immediate arrest of all involved and stressed that no special treatment would be given to the actor in jail.
The ruling has received strong public backing. Actress Divya Spandana, formerly known as Ramya, praised the Supreme Court’s decision, stating, “ALL ARE EQUAL BEFORE LAW,” highlighting the impartiality of the judiciary. Legal analysts have pointed out that the judgment reinforces the principle that celebrity status cannot influence legal outcomes.
AS Ponnanna, legal advisor to Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, confirmed that Darshan would be treated like any other prisoner, with no preferential privileges. The Supreme Court’s move has been widely seen as a firm assertion of justice and accountability.
The cancellation of bail serves as a reminder that the judicial system operates on the basis of equality and fairness. As the case proceeds through the courts, it continues to attract significant attention and underscores the importance of upholding the rule of law, regardless of public profile or influence.
