BENGALURU: Kannada actor Darshan Thoogudeepa has been transferred from Parappana Agrahara Central Jail to Bellary Central Jail. The proceedings were started around 4 am and Darshan was brought to Bellary Jail by 9.55 am. Heavy security was put in place as fans thronged outside.

The video of Darshan smoking a cigarette and talking to a fan on video call in Parappana Agrahara Jail had caused a huge controversy. A picture of Darshan hanging out with three people during the day had gone viral on social media two days ago. The photo shows Darshan sitting on plastic chair and having a friendly conversation. Darshan is seen holding a cup and a cigarette in the picture. Gangster leader Wilson Garden Naga, Kulla Seena and Darshan's manager Nagaraj are in the picture with Darshan. With this, it was alleged that Darshan was given VIP treatment and was living a comfortable life in jail. Seven prison officials were suspended by the Home Department pending investigation in the wake of serious security lapses. Darshan was transferred to Bellary jail following this.

The Bengaluru Additional Chief Metropolitan Magistrate's Court has extended the judicial custody of Darshan and his co-accused till the 9th of next month. As the custody period ended on Wednesday, the accused were produced through video conference. The court accepted the police request to continue judicial custody.

Darshan, accused in the murder of 33-year-old Renukaswamy, was arrested on June 11. 17 people including Darshan and his friend and actress Pavitra Gowda are in jail. Renukaswamy sending lewd messages to Pavitra is what infuriated Darshan and led to the murder. Renukaswamy's body was found in a drain near an apartment in Sumanahalli on June 9.