Bengaluru:
The Karnataka High Court on Tuesday stayed a trial court order that had permitted home-cooked food for the accused in the Renukaswamy murder case, including actor Darshan and Pavithra Gowda. The interim stay comes amid growing public debate over prison rules and the principle of equal treatment under the law.
The High Court observed that any relaxation of jail norms must strictly comply with established prison regulations and cannot be granted as a matter of privilege while a serious criminal trial is in progress. The court stressed that undertrials are subject to uniform rules, irrespective of social standing or public profile.
The trial court’s earlier order had sparked criticism, with legal experts and civil society groups questioning whether allowing home food amounted to special treatment. The issue also triggered wider discussions on transparency in the criminal justice system and the need to avoid perceptions of preferential treatment.
Following the High Court’s intervention, prison authorities will continue to provide standard jail food to the accused until further orders. The matter is expected to come up for detailed hearing at a later date, during which the court will examine the legality of granting such concessions.
The Renukaswamy murder case has drawn significant public attention across the state, with the High Court’s decision seen as a reaffirmation of equality before law and adherence to due process.
