Court-Ordered inspection finds jail facilities for actor Darshan adequate, recommends daily sunlight walks
Actor Darshan: The Karnataka State Legal Services Authority (KSLSA) has reported that basic jail facilities provided to actor Darshan, currently in judicial custody over the Renukaswamy murder case, conform to prison regulations. However, it recommended that he be allowed limited time outdoors for walking in sunlight due to health considerations.
Following a court directive to personally verify allegations that Darshan was denied minimum amenities in Parappana Agrahara Central Jail, KSLSA’s Bengaluru District Secretary, Justice B. Varadaraju, visited the prison earlier this week and submitted a detailed report to the 57th City Civil and Sessions Court.
The inspection was ordered after Darshan’s lawyers accused the jail authorities of ignoring court orders to provide basic amenities. The report clarifies that the actor’s barrack includes both Indian and Western-style toilets, and jail guidelines prohibit the use of mattresses or pillows by undertrial prisoners.
On complaints of being denied open-air movement, officials stated that while inmates are generally entitled to one hour of walking or recreation, Darshan’s public profile creates security concerns as crowds often gather near the facility, and nearby residents attempt to photograph him from apartment buildings.
Regarding sanitation and hygiene, the report determined there was no fungal infection on Darshan’s feet, contrary to his earlier complaint, but found minor cracks in his heel, which were being treated by the jail’s dermatology consultant, Dr. Jyothibai. The report added that medical officers visit Darshan’s barrack twice a week and that physiotherapy sessions are being provided
Other grievances — including demands for a television, mirror, mosquito repellent, and broom — were dismissed, citing prison rules that reserve such items for convicted prisoners, not undertrials. The inspection team confirmed that electric lights remain on through the night for security reasons, consistent with the Karnataka Prison Manual.
The court had earlier ordered the inspection after Darshan’s legal team alleged deliberate mistreatment and violation of its orders. Concluding its findings, the KSLSA stated that all facilities were in line with jail regulations and that no irregularities were found, except for the suggestion to ensure Darshan’s exposure to sunlight for health reasons.
