• By Mayukh Debnath
  • Mon, 26 Aug 2024 01:49 PM (IST)
  • Source:IANS
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Darshan Viral Photo Row: Day after a viral photo sparked concerns about Kannada actor Darshan Thoogudeepa possibly receiving preferential treatment in jail, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Monday directed the authorities to transfer the murder-accused and his associates to different jails, news agency IANS reported.

Darshan is currently lodged in Bengaluru Central Prison along with 13 other accused in connection with the kidnapping and murder of a purported fan named Renukaswamy. A photo recently surfaced online, purportedly showing the actor enjoy a cigarette and a cup of tea with others on jail premises. Jagran New Media could not verify the authenticity of the viral photo, which showed four men sitting in the open.

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A statement posted from Siddaramaiah's personal handle on X (formerly Twitter) said the CM had taken cognizance of the viral photo. "I have instructed the State Director General of Police to immediately transfer Darshan and others to different jails and to visit the jail and give a full report on the case," CM Siddaramaiah said.

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As many as seven prison officials have been suspended in the wake of the photo's emergence. "Yesterday evening our officers went and inquired [about the incident]. 7 officers were kept under suspension. This is a lapse. This should not be repeated. We also have some responsibility," Karnataka Home Minister G Parameshwara told reporters on Saturday.

(With inputs from agenc)