Security Tightened as Darshan Released from Prison; Heads to Bengaluru for Surgery

Kannada film actor Darshan, who lodged in Ballari Central Prison due to his alleged involvement in the Chitradurga-based Renukaswamy murder case, was granted interim bail by the Karnataka High Court on Wednesday, October 30, 2024. The court approved his release for a six-week period to facilitate medical treatment, specifically for a surgical procedure to alleviate his chronic back pain, as recommended by neurospecialists from the Ballari Medical College and Research Centre (BMCRC).

By 5 p.m., a copy of the High Court’s bail order had reached Ballari Central Prison, where officials had been on standby throughout the day in anticipation of the paperwork. The prison staff promptly began the necessary procedures, allowing Darshan to complete his release paperwork at the prison office. At approximately 6 p.m., the actor emerged from the facility, marking the end of his confinement for the time being.

Since all formalities were completed efficiently, Darshan was released in accordance with the High Court’s decision.

After his release, Darshan was accompanied by security as he boarded his vehicle amidst enthusiastic fans, who had gathered outside the jail, chanting his name. To maintain order and ensure his safe passage, Ballari police provided an escort for around 25 kilometers, covering the route from Ballari to the Karnataka-Andhra Pradesh border. Darshan then took the Anantapur- route toward Bengaluru, reportedly to minimize fan gatherings along the way.

In anticipation of his release, Darshan’s wife Vijayalakshmi arrived in Ballari in the morning. Following the court’s announcement, she visited him at the prison, engaging in discussions with both her husband and prison officials. Later in the day, she offered a special puja at Durgamma Temple in Ballari to express gratitude for his release.

Previously, Darshan was held at Parappana Agrahara Central Prison. However, following a controversy over alleged preferential treatment captured in leaked images and videos, he was transferred to Ballari Central Prison on August 29, 2024. His ongoing back pain issues prompted his recent visit to Vijayanagara Institute of Medical Sciences (VIMS) in Ballari for an MRI scan on October 22. The High Court’s interim bail now permits him to pursue further medical care in Bengaluru, where he is expected to undergo surgery.