Supreme Court Refuses Bail to Darshan in Murder Case; Actor Told to Wait One Year Until Key Witness Examination
New Delhi/Bengaluru: The Supreme Court has refused to grant bail to Kannada actor Darshan in the sensational murder case against him, directing that key witness examinations must first be completed before any fresh bail consideration.
The top court’s decision came as a major setback for the actor, who had approached the Supreme Court citing delay in trial proceedings, poor prison conditions, health concerns and threats from fellow inmates.
Darshan Raised Multiple Grounds Seeking Bail
In his petition, Darshan claimed that:
- Examination of witnesses was progressing very slowly
- Jail facilities were inadequate
- He was facing health-related difficulties
- Fellow inmates were allegedly threatening and harassing him
- Prison authorities were not allowing adequate family interaction
His film career was suffering severe damage due to prolonged incarceration
The actor had hoped the Supreme Court would show leniency considering the delay in trial proceedings and professional losses.
Mukul Rohatgi Appeared for Darshan
Senior advocate Mukul Rohatgi, appearing for Darshan, argued before the court that the case involved more than 272 witnesses, but only around 10 witnesses had been examined so far.
He informed the court that charges were framed on November 3 and argued that there had been substantial delay in conducting witness examination.
Rohatgi urged the court to grant bail after completion of examination of direct and key witnesses.
Prosecution Opposed Bail
The prosecution strongly opposed the bail plea.
Senior advocate Siddharth Luthra, appearing for the state, reportedly argued that the nature of allegations and concerns surrounding witnesses were serious enough to reject the bail petition.
The prosecution also requested the court not to consider bail until at least 60 crucial witnesses were examined.
Supreme Court Directs Speedy Trial
After hearing both sides, the bench comprising Justice Pardiwala and Justice Vijay Bishnoi directed the trial court to complete examination of 60 key witnesses within one year.
The Supreme Court observed that only after completion of that stage could Darshan move the trial court again seeking bail.
The bench also directed the Karnataka High Court to appoint a new judge to the sessions court to ensure faster progress in the case.
Jail Facilities and Quarantine Cell
The Supreme Court further stated that prison authorities must provide Darshan all facilities available to other inmates as per jail manual provisions.
However, the court reportedly declined to issue any specific directions regarding the quarantine cell or separate accommodation demands raised by the actor.
Career Concerns Mentioned in Petition
In his plea, Darshan also highlighted the impact of incarceration on his film career.
He reportedly informed the court that he usually acts in two to three films annually and had already signed projects with major production banners including KVN Productions and Media House Studios.
According to the petition, producers had already invested nearly ₹6 crore in upcoming projects.
Darshan argued that prolonged imprisonment could severely damage his professional future and effectively end his active film career.
Fresh Bail Plea Only After Key Witness Stage
Despite arguments regarding delay in trial and career losses, the Supreme Court declined immediate relief.
With the court insisting on completion of examination of 60 major witnesses before reconsideration of bail, legal observers believe the actor may continue to remain in custody for a prolonged period.
The development has disappointed many of Darshan’s fans, with uncertainty now surrounding the release timeline of his upcoming films.
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