Associates of Actor Darshan Request Pardon to Turn Approvers in Renukaswamy Murder Case
Two individuals implicated in the Renukaswamy murder case have approached a Bengaluru sessions court, seeking legal pardon to become approvers and support the prosecution’s case. The applications were submitted by Vinay V (Accused No. 10) and Pradosh S Rao, also known as Pradosh (Accused No. 14), both of whom are reportedly close to Kannada actor Darshan, the principal accused in the case.
The applications were filed on August 5 with the 58th Additional City Civil and Sessions Court, under the jurisdiction of Judge Sujata Madivalappa Sambrani. The court has reserved its decision regarding the applicants’ right to audience, with the matter scheduled for orders on August 10, 2026.
Applications Outline Willingness to Assist Prosecution
In their applications, Vinay and Pradosh have expressed their readiness to provide a “full and true disclosure” of all pertinent facts related to the crime and the involvement of each participant. They assert that their testimonies would significantly aid the prosecution in proving the case.
Pradosh, in his application, claimed that he tried to intervene to prevent Darshan and other accused parties from committing the murder. The body of 33-year-old Renukaswamy was discovered on June 9, 2024, following an alleged attack over inappropriate messages sent to Darshan’s partner, Pavithra Gowda, who is also implicated in the murder.
Details of the Incident as Described by Pradosh
Currently incarcerated, Darshan awaits trial for murder. Pradosh, one of the accused, has submitted that he was present during the entire incident and possesses firsthand knowledge of the events leading to Renukaswamy’s death, along with alleged efforts to cover up the crime.
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In his application, Pradosh attempts to distance himself from the assault, claiming that the prosecution’s evidence indicates his limited role. He states that he repeatedly cautioned against the assault, fearing fatal consequences, and merely followed Darshan’s instructions to read messages from Renukaswamy’s phone.
Pradosh alleges that he tried to halt the assault and provided Renukaswamy with sustenance and clothing. He further claims to have pushed Darshan away when he stood on Renukaswamy’s chest, pleading with him to cease the attack.
Allegations of Post-Incident Actions
Pradosh recounts learning from Darshan’s driver, Lakshman, that Renukaswamy had died following the assault. He claims to have immediately informed Darshan, who then allegedly reacted with shock and panic. According to the application, Darshan threatened to commit suicide unless Pradosh assisted in managing the aftermath.
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The plea details alleged actions taken to dispose of Renukaswamy’s body and orchestrate the surrender of certain accused parties to the police. It describes efforts to find a location for abandoning the body and distributing cash to facilitate these plans. Pradosh claims Darshan provided ₹5 lakh to one Nagaraj and ₹10 lakh to Vinay to ensure the surrender of certain individuals.
Expressing remorse for his participation, Pradosh has voluntarily approached the court, seeking a pardon.
