Bengaluru Court Warns Against Witness Tampering In Actor Darshan Murder Trial

The 58 Additional City Civil and Sessions Court in Bengaluru on Tuesday, June 30, 2026, issued a stern warning against any attempts to influence witnesses in the high-profile Renukaswamy murder case trial involving actor Darshan Thoogudeepa.

The court's warning came during the day's scheduled proceedings, during which prosecution witness number 17 (PW-17) was being examined. Immediately after taking his oath, PW-17 made a serious allegation before the court, stating that unknown individuals had attempted to interfere with his testimony.

According to the witness, the unidentified individuals had allegedly contacted him through an acquaintance named Akarsh. PW-17 told the court that these persons were seeking information about what he planned to say in his testimony and were actively asking him to depose in a particular manner.

The court took serious note of the witness's allegations of tampering. The judge directed PW-17 to file a separate, formal affidavit that details the alleged attempt to influence his testimony. The judge observed that if such an affidavit is filed, the court will initiate appropriate legal action against those responsible for the tampering attempt.

Furthermore, the court issued a general caution regarding the integrity of the trial. The judge warned that any attempt to tamper with witnesses, whether conducted by individuals who are directly connected to the case or those who are unconnected, would be viewed with extreme seriousness. The court stated that any such actions would be dealt with strictly in accordance with the law.

To ensure the safety of the witness, the court directed the Investigating Officer to provide the necessary protection to PW-17 throughout the entire duration of his testimony.

Because the court ran out of time during Tuesday's session, the further chief examination of PW-17 could not be completed and was deferred. The court has posted the matter to Wednesday, July 1, 2026, for the presentation of further evidence.