• Source:JND
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Renukaswamy Murder Case: After a photo showing Kannada actor Darshan Thoogudeepa, accused of kidnapping and murdering his fan, Renukaswamy, smoking a cigarette surrounded by three others in an open lawn surfaced online, as many as seven officials at Parappana Agrahara Central jail in Bengaluru has been suspended. 

Reacting to the purported photo of the Kannada actor, Karnataka Minister G Parameshwara said, "Yesterday evening our officers went and inquired. 7 officers were kept under suspension. This is a lapse. This should not be repeated. We also have some responsibility."

In a photo shared by news agency IANS, the Kannada actor was seen in a grey t-shirt and black trousers,  holding a cup of coffee and a cigarette in the other hand. He was seen sitting with three other men in the garden area, sipping coffee and laughing about something. The viral image raised questions about the security concerns within the prison. 

Reacting to the viral photo, Renukaswamy's father, Kashinath S Shivanagowdru, called for a probe and strict action against those involved.

Meanwhile, another video is making rounds on social media, showing the Kannada actor on a phone call with a man. However, the authenticity of the video could not be verified. 

The video starts with a man in a yellow t-shirt smiling at another man on the video call.  During the call, the second man steps back and shifts the camera away from his face. He then hands the phone to someone nearby, and soon after, Darshan's face appears on the screen.

Darshan greets the man with a cheerful wave. The man, intrigued by the friendly gesture, motions towards his mouth, inquiring if Darshan has had a chance to eat. With a warm smile and a nod, Darshan reassures him. After a brief but friendly exchange, they bid each other goodbye. The 25-second video shows the actor in a bright room. 

Renukaswamy Murder Case: 

Darshan and Pavithra Gowda are among 17 people who were arrested in connection with the murder of Renukaswamy, an auto driver who was also a fan of the Kannada actor, who was found near a flyover in Bengaluru on June 9. 

The police stated that Renukaswamy was tragically kidnapped and murdered by a gang acting on the instructions of Darshan. The incident stemmed from offensive messages Renukaswamy sent on social media to actress Pavithra Gowda, who is rumoured to be in a relationship with actor Darshan. The case has sparked public outrage and media attention. A Bengaluru court extended the judicial custody of actor Darshan, Pavithra till August 28.