Bengaluru: Karnataka HC suggests Parappana Agrahara court for Darshan

Actor Darshan Thoogudeepa, an accused in the Renukaswamy murder case, could attend court in person when key witnesses are examined rather than on every hearing date, the Karnataka High Court has suggested.

Justice V Srishananda also suggested shifting the trial to the special court at Parappana Agrahara. The judge said examination of material witnesses could be completed in a couple of days, while producing Darshan in court for every hearing could create security and traffic problems.

Vijayalakshmi, Darshan’s wife, has sought his presence before the trial court instead of participation through video conferencing. She cited recurring technical and connectivity problems that, she argued, prevented him from effectively following the proceedings.

On August 17, the trial court rejected a similar request from Darshan and three other accused. It directed jail officials to allow confidential, unrestricted consultations with advocates and asked the city civil court registry to keep video-conferencing systems functional.

The High Court also suggested a 15-minute private consultation between Darshan and his lawyer before proceedings begin. The petition is listed for hearing on September 16.