Karnataka HC allows Darshan limited physical presence for key witness cross-examination
Karnataka High Court allows actor Darshan limited physical appearance during cross-examination of key witnesses in the Renukaswamy murder case.
The High Court of Karnataka on Friday granted actor Darshan permission to appear in person before the trial court for a limited number of days, specifically when his counsel cross-examines key witnesses in the Renukaswamy murder case. Justice V. Srishananda issued the order while disposing of a petition filed by Darshan through his wife, Vijayalakshmi.
Darshan, the second accused in the case, had sought a direction to authorities to produce him physically before the trial court in the city civil court complex every day of proceedings, instead of appearing through videoconference from Bengaluru central prison. He had challenged the trial court's August 17 order rejecting his plea, citing technical glitches in videoconferencing and the need to effectively instruct his advocates during trial.
The High Court, however, restricted his personal appearance to two to three days, or a couple more if required, only when his counsel cross-examines the key witnesses. Eight such witnesses were named by his counsel. The court directed that once these witnesses are examined by the prosecution, they shall be bound over, and two to three consecutive dates shall be fixed by the trial court in consultation with the Special Public Prosecutor and defence counsel for cross-examination.
Justice Srishananda clarified that if any other accused sought physical presence during cross-examination of the key witnesses, the trial court could consider such requests and allow their physical presence for a limited duration. The court also directed prison authorities to ensure adequate security for Darshan and others on the dates fixed by the trial court.
The High Court made clear that the directions were issued taking note of the sensitivity and peculiarity of the case and should not be treated as a precedent.
Darshan, along with Pavithra Gowda and 15 others, is facing trial for the abduction, torture, and murder of 33-year-old Renukaswamy, a fan of the actor from Chitradurga. He was allegedly murdered for sending obscene messages to Pavithra on her social media account.