Bengaluru: Kannada actor Darshan, currently lodged in Bengaluru Central Prison in connection with the Renukaswamy fan murder case, pleaded with the court on Tuesday to be given “a drop of poison,” citing unbearable conditions in prison.

Darshan made the desperate appeal while appearing via video conference before the 57th Additional City Civil and Sessions Court (CCH 57). As the session neared its end, the actor raised his hand and requested to speak.

“It has been more than a month since I saw sunlight, and my hands are affected by fungus. Hence, please pass an order to give me poison in court,” Darshan said, breaking down in tears.

He further clarified that his request was solely for himself and not for the other co-accused in the case.

The presiding judge advised Darshan not to make such distressing pleas in court, stating that his grievances would be addressed through proper procedures. The court stated that appropriate directions would be issued to prison authorities regarding his health concerns and living conditions.

Darshan also requested a pillow, bedsheets, and permission for home-cooked food. Following the judge’s response, he nodded silently and refrained from further comments.

The court reserved its decision for later in the afternoon and is also expected to issue an order regarding the possible relocation of Darshan and other accused to different prisons within the state.

During the video conference, Darshan, who appeared strong and well-built at the time of his arrest, looked noticeably weakened and worn down. The court has fixed September 19, 2025, for the framing of charges in the murder case. It added that the examination of witnesses must begin without further delay and directed counsels to file necessary applications.

SC revokes bail, slams Karnataka High Court

Darshan's plea comes just weeks after the Supreme Court overturned the Karnataka High Court’s order granting him bail. A bench comprising Justice J.B. Pardiwala and Justice R. Mahadevan sharply criticised the High Court’s judgment, stating that it read more like a decision on acquittal than bail.

The apex court observed a prima facie misuse of judicial discretion, adding, “Such errors might be understandable at a lower court level, but not from a High Court judge.” The bench also questioned whether such lenient bail orders were the norm in other cases handled by the Karnataka High Court.

Background: The Renukaswamy murder case

The case revolves around the murder of 33-year-old Renukaswamy, a fan of Darshan, whose body was found under a flyover in Bengaluru on June 9, 2024. Investigations revealed that he had allegedly been kidnapped, tortured, and killed in Pattangere village, reportedly at the behest of Darshan.

Renukaswamy had allegedly been harassing actress Pavitra Gowda, a close friend of Darshan. Following the brutal assault, it is believed the actor was informed of the murder via WhatsApp.

Darshan and several others were subsequently arrested. Since then, he has been held in judicial custody, awaiting trial.

IANS inputs