Is anyone really above the law in India? K’taka Home Minister responds to actor Darshan's arrest
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- No one is above the law in India, as emphasized by the Supreme Court.
- Karnataka's Home Minister supports the legal system's integrity.
- The ruling underscores the need for accountability in the judicial system.
- The accused have the right to pursue their case in court.
- Luxurious prison conditions for the accused have been criticized by the Supreme Court.
Bengaluru, Aug 14 (NationPress) In light of the recent bail cancellation and subsequent arrest of Kannada actor Darshan along with other defendants in the fan murder case, Karnataka Home Minister G. Parameshwara emphasized that the ruling underscores the principle that no one is above the law in India.
While addressing reporters in Bengaluru on Thursday, Parameshwara stated, “In this nation, no individual is above the law. The legal framework must be observed by all citizens. Regardless of one's status, respect for the law is paramount. In this regard, the Supreme Court has overruled the High Court’s decision related to the fan murder case. The Apex Court determined that the bail grant was inappropriate, and this ruling must be acknowledged.”
“The law offers avenues for the accused to continue their legal battles. They have the right to contest their case in court. This is a provision provided by our judicial system,” he further mentioned.
Responding to inquiries regarding the government’s appeal against the bail order, Parameshwara remarked, “We are obligated to adhere to the law, and the Department of Law has acted accordingly in this situation. The Supreme Court has endorsed it, and we must honor that.”
Regarding the Supreme Court's dissatisfaction with the luxurious amenities afforded to the accused in prison, he noted, “Our Prison DGP is expected to have received directives regarding this matter. Following the court's remarks, they will undoubtedly act with diligence.”
The decision regarding the relocation of the accused to designated prisons will be determined by prison authorities, with no influence from the government, he added.
Shortly after the Supreme Court annulled the bail, the Karnataka Police apprehended actor Darshan, his partner Pavithra Gowda, and five other accused individuals from Bengaluru and Chitradurga district. The accused are scheduled to be presented before the judge at his residence following their medical examinations.
Darshan was taken into custody at his wife's residence, while the primary accused, Pavithra Gowda, was arrested at her home. Others apprehended include Jagadish alias Jagga (A6), Anukumar alias Anu (A7), Nagaraju alias Naga (A12), Pradosh (A14), and Laxman (A13).
A significant development occurred when the Supreme Court on Thursday revoked Darshan's bail concerning the fan murder case. The bench ordered authorities to detain him immediately. The ruling similarly applied to Pavithra Gowda and five other accused, all of whom are to be taken into custody following the verdict.
Justices R. Mahadevan and J.B. Pardiwala delivered the judgment, declaring the High Court's ruling as flawed. The court also urged for the swift trial of witnesses, reiterating that no one, irrespective of their prominence, is above the law.
Describing it as a landmark ruling, the bench directed that copies of the judgment be disseminated to all High Courts and state governments. The court noted that the accused had received “five-star” treatment in jail and indicated that the jail superintendent responsible should face suspension.
“Should any evidence arise showing the accused relaxing in jail and smoking, appropriate actions will be taken against the prison authorities and state officials,” the bench cautioned.
It is noteworthy that Darshan, Pavithra Gowda, and 15 others were first arrested on June 11, 2024, on allegations of kidnapping and brutally murdering Renukaswamy, a fan from Chitradurga.