Karnataka High Court to announce decision on bail pleas of five accused linked to Renukaswamy murder case
Bengaluru: A significant development is expected in the high-profile Renukaswamy murder case as the Karnataka High Court is scheduled to pronounce its verdict on the bail pleas of five accused associated with actor Darshan on Tuesday afternoon.
The court is expected to deliver its order at around 2:30 pm on petitions concerning accused Vinay, Nadeesh, Dhanaraju, Pawan and Raghavendra, whose bail is under judicial scrutiny following recent proceedings in the case.
The outcome is being closely watched as it could have a major impact on the legal proceedings involving the remaining accused in one of Karnataka's most widely discussed criminal cases.
"The Karnataka High Court is set to pronounce its verdict on the bail pleas of five accused in the Renukaswamy murder case."
Supreme Court Order Led to Fresh Bail Review
The latest proceedings stem from an earlier order of the Supreme Court, which cancelled the bail granted to several accused in the case, including actor Darshan.
Following the apex court's observations, the prosecution approached the Karnataka High Court seeking cancellation of bail granted to the remaining accused. The plea argued that the matter required reconsideration in light of the Supreme Court's directions.
The prosecution's petition was subsequently taken up for hearing before the High Court.
High Court Heard Detailed Arguments
A bench headed by Justice S. Rachaiah heard extensive submissions from both the prosecution and defence counsels before reserving its verdict.
During the proceedings, the prosecution sought cancellation of the bail granted to the five accused, while the defence opposed the plea and requested continuation of the relief already granted.
The court examined the arguments and relevant records before deciding to pronounce its order today.
Renukaswamy Murder Case Remains Under Trial
The Renukaswamy murder case continues to be heard before the designated trial court in Bengaluru. The matter has attracted considerable public attention due to the involvement of actor Darshan and several co-accused.
Legal experts note that the High Court's decision on the bail petitions could influence the future course of proceedings, though the criminal trial itself will continue independently.
Authorities have maintained that the investigation and prosecution are being carried out in accordance with legal procedures.
Background of the Renukaswamy Murder Case
Actor Darshan has been in judicial custody in connection with the high-profile Renukaswamy murder case, which emerged in June 2024 after the body of 33-year-old Renukaswamy from Chitradurga was allegedly recovered from a stormwater drain in Bengaluru. According to the prosecution, Renukaswamy had allegedly sent objectionable and abusive messages to actress Pavithra Gowda, following which he was allegedly abducted, confined and assaulted by the accused persons. Darshan, actress Pavithra Gowda and several others were later arrested in the case during the police investigation.
The case witnessed major legal developments after the Karnataka High Court granted bail to Darshan and some co-accused in 2024. However, the Supreme Court of India later cancelled the bail in August 2025, observing that “no one is above the rule of law” and raising concerns regarding the manner in which bail had been granted. The apex court also reportedly expressed concern over allegations of witness intimidation and prison-related irregularities.
Recently, Darshan again approached the Supreme Court seeking relief on grounds including delay in trial proceedings, prison conditions and lack of basic amenities. However, the Supreme Court declined to grant immediate bail and directed the Karnataka government to ensure speedy trial proceedings by examining at least 60 key witnesses within one year. The court further observed that Darshan could approach the trial court again for bail if there is no substantial progress in the trial within the stipulated period.
