The family of Renukaswamy, a 33-year-old murder victim, expressed relief and renewed trust in the judiciary after the Supreme Court on Thursday overturned the bail granted to Kannada actor Darshan and his co-accused. The top court ordered their immediate re-arrest and directed authorities to expedite the trial, bringing hope to the grieving family.

Shivanagouda, Renukaswamy’s father, hailed the decision, stating, “This ruling strengthens our faith in the government, judiciary, and police. Our only aim is to see the criminals punished, so my son’s soul can rest in peace.” He emphasized that the verdict proves “the law is equal for all—rich, mighty, or poor.”

The Supreme Court’s order came in response to the Karnataka government’s appeal against the Karnataka High Court’s December 13, 2024, decision to grant bail to Darshan, actress Pavithra Gowda, and others. The accused face charges of abducting, torturing, and murdering Renukaswamy, a fan from Chitradurga, in June 2024. Police allege Renukaswamy was held in a Bengaluru shed for three days, tortured for sending obscene messages to Pavithra, and his body was later found in a drain.

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Following the ruling, Ballari prison, where Darshan is likely to be transferred, has ramped up security. A high-security cell has been prepared, and the prison’s compound wall, previously breached by fans, has been raised to 25 feet to prevent incidents. Authorities are also managing preparations for Independence Day flag-hoisting amidst these measures, sources confirmed.

The case, which has gripped Karnataka, highlights the brutality of the crime and the public’s demand for justice. Renukaswamy’s family, supported by community protests, continues to seek accountability, with the Supreme Court’s decision marking a significant step toward closure.

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