Popular Kannada actor Kiccha Sudeep has called for swift justice in the murder case involving fellow Sandalwood star Darshan Thoogudeepa and his girlfriend Pavithra Gowda. The case, which has garnered significant attention, also implicates 11 others.
Darshan Thoogudeepa, along with Pavithra Gowda and the co-accused, is currently in police custody. Sources indicate that Ms. Gowda allegedly incited Darshan to “punish” Renuka Swamy for derogatory remarks made on social media.
“Justice transcends friendship, and it should be served to Renuka Swamy’s family. Those found guilty must be punished,” Kiccha Sudeep told reporters. “His wife and family deserve justice,” he added.
Investigations revealed that Darshan and his associates took Swamy to a shed in Bengaluru’s Kamakshipalya. There, Darshan reportedly thrashed Swamy with a belt while his aides beat him with sticks until he lost consciousness. The assault left Swamy with multiple fractures and severe injuries.
Renuka Swamy’s body, discovered by a food delivery rider, was being nibbled by dogs. The autopsy confirmed the brutal nature of the murder, citing shock and haemorrhage as the cause of death.
Police reports indicate that Mr. Thoogudeepa allegedly orchestrated a cover-up by planting three men to take the blame for the murder, offering them ₹5 lakh each. However, the plan unraveled during interrogation.
The case has sparked widespread outrage and protests across Karnataka, with demands for justice and accountability intensifying.
