The detention of Kannada actor Darshan Thoogudeepa in the Parappana Agrahara Central Prison, stemming from his involvement in the high-profile Renukaswamy murder case, has been marred by a fresh wave of controversy. Recent reports from within the prison walls allege that the prominent actor has been struggling to adapt to the new, more stringent jail regimen introduced by the current chief superintendent. This reported difficulty in adjusting has allegedly led to a significant loss of control, resulting in friction and physical and mental harassment directed towards some of his co-accused cellmates.
The severity of the situation has reportedly escalated to the point where physical altercations have broken out within the cell that houses Darshan and several other co-accused individuals in the same murder case. Specifically, reports indicate a major quarrel recently took place between Darshan and another accused, Jagga. The dispute became loud and intense enough to necessitate the immediate intervention of prison authorities to separate the inmates and restore order within the cell block.
Sources familiar with the jail's internal dynamics suggest that the actor's alleged erratic behaviour is a reaction to the newly implemented, uncompromising rules. Unlike his initial stint where he was accused of receiving special treatment, the current environment demands strict adherence to all protocols, including standing in line for meals and cleaning his own toilet facilities. These tough new rules are reportedly causing immense distress to Darshan, prompting the alleged psychological and physical intimidation of other prisoners in a bid to exert control within his confined space.
The specific accusations point towards Darshan subjecting his co-accused—namely Anu Kumar, Jagga, Pradosh, and Lakshman—to mental and physical duress. It is reported that one of the co-accused, Nagaraju, is the only one who has not been subjected to this alleged harassment. In light of the escalating tensions and reported scuffles, the jail administration has reportedly placed special surveillance on Darshan's cell to monitor his activities and prevent further incidents of misconduct or physical violence among the inmates.
These grave allegations of physical harassment and misconduct within the prison compound only further complicate the legal and public narrative surrounding the actor. Following the Supreme Court's cancellation of his previous bail and his return to judicial custody, the authorities have been under immense public and judicial scrutiny to ensure he receives no preferential treatment. The current reports of loss of control and violence demonstrate a significant challenge to maintaining discipline and safety within the high-security prison, demanding a firm response from the correctional services to ensure the well-being of all inmates.
