Renukaswamy Case: High-security cell ready for Darshan in Ballari jail

Team Udayavani, Aug 28, 2024, 10:14 AM IST

Darshan Thoogudeepa

Ballari: Preparations are underway to transfer actor Darshan, who has been enjoying VIP treatment in Bengaluru jail, to Ballari Central Prison, where a high-security cell has been arranged for him.

Ballari Central Prison can accommodate 800 to 1,000 inmates. Currently, there are 368 inmates, including those awaiting trial and convicts. The prison has five separate blocks for those awaiting trial and 200 cells for convicts.

The high-security cells come equipped with water and toilet facilities. Video conferencing facilities have been arranged for court proceedings, and CCTV cameras have been installed for surveillance. A large number of inmates in Ballari jail hail from various districts.

From Film Set to Prison Cell

In 2017, Darshan starred in the movie “Chowka,” which was filmed in the empty cells of Ballari Central Prison. Now, the actor is set to occupy a cell in the same prison.

Janardhana Reddy’s Overnight Stay

Former minister Janardhana Reddy, accused of illegal mining, was held overnight in Ballari Jail in connection with a court hearing in Sandur before being transferred to the Charlapalli Jail in Andhra Pradesh. Interestingly, just a year before his arrest, Reddy had visited the same prison to offer assurances to prisoners protesting for their release on good behavior.