7 Prison officials Suspended Over Actor Darshan’s VIP Treatment In Jail (image-X/Shehzad_Ind)

Seven Bengaluru prison officials have been suspended after a viral photo and video featuring Kannada actor Darshan Thoogudeepa went viral. Darshan can be seen receiving special treatment while in custody in the Renukaswamy murder case.

Following a preliminary inquiry, seven officials were found involved and were suspended, said Karnataka Home Minister G Parmeshwar. Calling it “a serious security lapse,” he added that the authorities were investigating the matter further.

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A photo of Darshan in Bengaluru’s Parappana Agrahara Central Jail surfaced online, where he can be seen sitting on a chair with a cigarette and a coffee cup in his hand. Along with Darshan, three other individuals who have reportedly been identified as criminal Wilson Garden Naga, as well as Nagaraj, the actor’s manager and co-accused, and Kulla Seena, another inmate.

A video of Darshan speaking to someone on a video call also went viral, triggering widespread criticism and outrage.

Darshan was arrested in connection with the murder of Renukaswamy, who allegedly sent obscene messages to actress and Darshan’s alleged girlfriend Pavithra Gowda.

Father of Renukaswamy, Kashinath S Shivanagowdru, called for a thorough investigation by the CBI and punishment of those responsible. “Looking at the picture, I’m surprised to see him (Darshan) with others holding a cigarette and drinking tea. We doubt whether he is in jail or not. Jail should be jail and should not become something else. He should be treated like other normal prisoners, but here it looks like he seems to be sitting in a resort,” he said, as quoted by NDTV.

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“Khata Khat Nyay Model of Karnataka Congress? Murder accused filmstar Darshan photographed getting VIP treatment inside Bengaluru Central Prison with drink/beverage & cigarettes!! Chatting with history sheeters! Imagine how deep the rot runs in Congress system – VVIP treatment to rich & powerful; no justice for victims; Corruption written all over.. Will heads roll? Will Home Minister, Prison Mantri be sacked?” criticised BJP JP national spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla.