Supreme Court criticises Karnataka High Court’s bail to Darshan in Renukaswamy murder case

The Supreme Court today  expressed dissatisfaction with the Karnataka High Court’s decision to grant bail to actor Darshan in the Renukaswamy murder case.

A bench led by Justice J.B. Pardiwala heard the petition filed by the State Police challenging the bail order and observed that the High Court had failed to exercise proper judicial discretion.

Also read: Renukaswamy Case: Darshan and Pavithra appear in court; dramatic exchange in lift

During the hearing, senior advocate Kapil Sibal, representing Darshan, was asked to respond to the Supreme Court’s concerns regarding the manner in which the High Court issued the bail order. “You must have noticed how the High Court gave the order,” the bench remarked, highlighting serious procedural concerns.

Justice Pardiwala read out portions of the High Court’s bail order in open court, clearly stating that the reasoning provided was inadequate. The apex court scheduled a detailed hearing for July 22, instructing both parties to prepare arguments on whether the bail should be revoked.

Following the hearing, government counsel Anil Nishani stated that the police submitted records related to Darshan’s alleged involvement in other criminal activities, including incidents during his time in custody.

The Supreme Court’s sharp comments have unsettled Darshan’s supporters, as the upcoming hearing may determine whether the actor and co-accused Pavithra Gowda will have to return to jail.

The final decision on the bail order will be pronounced after arguments conclude on July 22.