Murder-Accused Kannada Actor Darshan Seen Making Video Calls, Sipping Coffee, And Smoking Cigarettes In Bengaluru's High-Security Prison

A video and photo showing Kannada film actor Darshan Thoogudeepa smoking a cigarette with gangster J Nagaraj, also known as Wilson Garden Naga, and making a video call inside the Parappana Agrahara Central Prison in Bengaluru have recently gone viral.

The video obtained by The Indian Express shows Darshan, Wilson Garden Naga, and others seated on the prison lawn, smoking a cigarette while holding a cup. Another video shows Darshan making a video call. Darshan and 11 others were arrested in June in connection with the murder of Renukaswamy from Chitradurga.

Although the media has not been able to independently verify the content, a prison official confirmed awareness of the video and photo. An inquiry has been ordered by the Director General of Police (Prisons) to investigate the matter.

Kashinath Shivannagoudar, the father of the murder victim Renukaswamy, voiced his distress regarding the investigation. “While we have faith in the state police, it is disheartening to see the accused seemingly enjoying themselves. We believe a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe is necessary,” he stated.

Darshan and his associates have been detained at Parappana Agrahara Central Prison since 22 June, following the end of their police custody. According to police, the investigation into Renukaswamy's murder is nearing completion, with a chargesheet expected to be filed soon.

In the previous year, Bengaluru police invoked the Karnataka Control of Organised Crime Act, 2000, against Wilson Garden Naga in connection with the murder of South Bengaluru gangster Mahesh N alias Siddapura Mahesh.

This incident highlights concerns about “VIP treatment” for certain inmates at Bengaluru Central Prison. Similar issues were reported previously, such as allegations of special privileges granted to then All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam leader Sasikala during her incarceration for a disproportionate assets case.