BENGALURU: The Karnataka High Court on Friday granted bail to Kannada film actor Darshan Thoogudeepa in the Renukaswamy murder case.

Along with Darshan, the court also gave bail to his friend Pavithra Gowda and seven others who are still in jail in connection with the case.

The actor was arrested on June 11 this year for allegedly killing Renukaswamy, his fan, on June 8 for sending obscene messages to Pavithra Gowda.

The actor was earlier lodged at the Parappana Agrahara Jail in Bengaluru, but when a photograph went viral showing him relaxing with some of the jail inmates, he was transferred to Ballari Central Jail.

Darshan is presently hospitalised for back pain.

On June 9, the body of 33-year-old Renukaswamy was discovered near a drain in Sumanahalli, Bengaluru, bearing multiple injuries.

Investigations revealed that Renukaswamy was abducted from Chitradurga and allegedly tortured before his death.

Following the discovery, four individuals surrendered to the police, claiming responsibility for the murder over a financial dispute. However, inconsistencies in their statements led authorities to suspect a larger conspiracy.

Subsequent investigations implicated actor Darshan, his associate Pavithra Gowda, and 15 others.

On June 11, 2024, Darshan was arrested in Mysuru and brought to Bengaluru for questioning.

By June 16, all suspects were arrested and produced before the court.