Kannada Actor Darshan’s Co-Accused Turns Approver in Renukaswamy Murder Case
· Entertainment · Indian Express, The Hindu
A Bengaluru court on September 17, 2026, granted pardon to accused Pradhosh Rao in the Renukaswamy murder case, admitting him as an approver after the prosecution cited hostile witnesses and case vulnerabilities. Rao, 40, was accused of participating in the assault and allegedly receiving ₹30 lakh to suppress evidence. The court rejected actor Darshan Thoogudeepa’s plea to delay the order, despite his claim that industry rivals were targeting him. Darshan remains jailed alongside 16 others, including Pavithra Gowda, accused of murdering Renukaswamy after he allegedly sent lewd comments to her on Instagram. The victim’s body, with 39 injuries, was dumped near a storm-water drain in Chitradurga, Karnataka.
Why it matters
The approver’s testimony could significantly alter the prosecution’s case, potentially weakening charges against Darshan and others. The Karnataka film industry and Darshan’s legal team will closely monitor the trial’s trajectory, as the approver’s evidence may impact sentencing and public perception of the case.
Read the original report — Indian Express
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