Kannada actress Pavithra Gowda, one of the prime accused in the Renukaswamy murder case, was taken into police custody on Thursday after the Supreme Court cancelled her bail along with that of the other accused - actor Darshan.
Actor Pavithra Gowda being taken into custody in connection with the Renukaswamy murder case, in Bengaluru, Thursday, Aug. 14, 2025. (PTI)
{{^htLoading}} {{/htLoading}}
A police team reportedly reached Gowda’s residence shortly after the apex court’s order and detained her. While Darshan is yet to be apprehended, he was allegedly sighted at the Punajanur check post on the Karnataka–Tamil Nadu border in his SUV earlier in the day.
The Supreme Court, emphasising that “persons regardless of popularity are equal before the law,” directed authorities to take all accused into custody immediately and conduct the trial expeditiously.
According to investigators, 33-year-old Renukaswamy, a fan of Darshan, was murdered on June 9, 2024, after allegedly sending obscene messages to Gowda. His body was found near a stormwater drain in Sumanahalli, Bengaluru. Police say Raghavendra, a member of Darshan’s fan club in Chitradurga, lured Renukaswamy to a shed in R R Nagar on the pretext of meeting the actor, where he was tortured and killed.
{{^htLoading}} {{/htLoading}}
{{^usCountry}}
Investigators maintain that Gowda, listed as Accused No. 1, was the “major cause” behind the murder, alleging she instigated and conspired with others before participating in the crime.
{{/usCountry}}
{{#usCountry}}
Investigators maintain that Gowda, listed as Accused No. 1, was the “major cause” behind the murder, alleging she instigated and conspired with others before participating in the crime.
Follow the latest breaking news, major developments and agenda-setting stories from India and around the world with the newsdesk at Hindustan Times. Operating round the clock, the desk brings together experienced editors, reporters and correspondents to deliver fast, accurate and contextual reporting across subjects that influence public policy, governance, business, society and international affairs. The HT News Desk covers politics, elections, government policies, the economy, business and markets, science and technology, the environment, law and order, infrastructure, education, climate issues and geopolitics, while closely tracking developments across states, institutions and global capitals. The team also leads coverage of major breaking news events, policy announcements, court proceedings, natural disasters, public emergencies and significant international developments. Reports published by the newsdesk are based on information gathered from reporters on the ground, official statements, government agencies, court records, regulatory filings, recognised institutions and other authoritative sources. Stories undergo editorial scrutiny and verification processes to ensure accuracy, fairness and relevance, and are updated as events evolve and additional information becomes available. Whether covering a key political decision in New Delhi, an economic policy shift affecting millions, a landmark court ruling or a major global event, the HT News Desk aims to provide readers with reliable, fact-based journalism that delivers not only the latest developments but also the context and analysis needed to understand their wider implications.
Get the latest India News, breaking headlines and real-time updates from across the country. Stay informed about politics, government policies, crime, weather and major national developments.
Get the latest India News, breaking headlines and real-time updates from across the country. Stay informed about politics, government policies, crime, weather and major national developments.
Home/India News/Pavithra Gowda arrested in Renukaswamy murder, Darshan spotted at Karnataka border
{{^htLoading}}
Advertisement
{{/htLoading}}
SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
{{#usCountry}}{{/usCountry}}
Hindustantimes wants to start sending you push notifications. Click allow to subscribe
