What are the Latest Developments in the Darshan Fan Murder Case?

Synopsis
The fan murder case involving Kannada superstar Darshan has taken a dramatic turn with the submission of an additional charge sheet by Karnataka Police. The document includes new evidence and witness statements, challenging Darshan's claims of innocence. Discover the implications of this case and how it unveils a web of rivalry and obsession.
Key Takeaways
- Karnataka Police have submitted a supplementary charge sheet in the Darshan case.
- New evidence includes a recovered photograph of Darshan with suspects.
- Darshan faces serious legal challenges as the Supreme Court reviews the bail.
- The conflict leading to the murder was fueled by personal rivalries.
- Legal restrictions apply to Darshan regarding witness contact.
Bengaluru, May 21 (NationPress) Karnataka Police have presented an additional charge sheet against Kannada superstar Darshan and other suspects in connection with the highly publicized fan murder case, according to police sources on Wednesday.
ACP Chandan Kumar, the lead investigator, filed the charge sheet at the trial court in Bengaluru. This 132-page supplementary document contains newly uncovered evidence related to the murder, alongside witness statements.
As per reports, authorities have recovered a photograph of Darshan with the other suspects from the day of the murder. This image had been deleted from one of the accused's mobile phone but was retrieved by the Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL).
Sources indicated that this new evidence poses a challenge for Darshan, whose legal team has strongly contended that he was not at the crime scene during the time of the murder.
The Karnataka Police have also appealed to the Supreme Court regarding the bail granted to Darshan. The Apex Court stated on Tuesday (May 20) that it will revisit the case after July 14.
Darshan, along with his partner Pavithra and 15 other individuals, was arrested on June 11, 2024, under allegations of kidnapping and brutally murdering Renukaswamy, a fan from Chitradurga.
Renukaswamy had reportedly sent offensive and obscene messages to Pavithra, incensed by Darshan's ongoing relationship with her despite his marriage.
Sources close to Darshan mentioned that Pavithra and his wife Vijayalakshmi were in competition over jewelry and luxury vehicles.
She allegedly urged Darshan to make joint appearances with her after he had been seen with his wife.
Pavithra and Vijayalakshmi also engaged in public altercations via social media, causing a division in Darshan's fan base.
Renukaswamy, who supported Vijayalakshmi, had criticized Pavithra, a confrontation that ultimately resulted in his brutal murder, according to police investigations.
The Karnataka Police are contesting the bail granted to Darshan and others in the Supreme Court. On January 24, the apex court issued notices to Darshan, Pavithra, and five others concerning the appeal filed by the state government.
While granting bail, the court ordered Darshan and the other accused to report to it monthly.
Darshan, the second accused in the fan murder case, faced further scrutiny after attending a movie premiere while absent from court proceedings due to health claims. Adding to the controversy, he was also spotted watching the movie with actor Chikkanna, a witness in the case, violating legal protocols.
Legally, those out on bail are prohibited from meeting witnesses involved in their cases.
On April 8, a Bengaluru court expressed serious concern over Darshan's non-appearance in the sensational fan murder case, citing his severe back pain.
The Civil and Sessions Judge emphasized that Darshan must attend all future hearings, with no excuses for absence being accepted.