The Karnataka prisons department has suspended seven staff members, including two jailers, after Kannada actor Darshan was spotted smoking a cigarette and drinking coffee inside the Bengaluru Central Prison. Home Minister G Parameshwara made the announcement on Monday in Bengaluru.
The controversy erupted after a photo of Darshan sitting outside his barrack, with a cigarette in one hand and a coffee mug in the other, went viral on social media on Sunday. In the image, Darshan’s manager and two other inmates were also seen seated with him.
Home Minister Parameshwara revealed that, following the incident, Director General of Prisons Malini Krishnamurthy immediately contacted the concerned officers at the Bengaluru Central Prison and conducted an enquiry that lasted until 1 A.M. Based on the preliminary findings, seven officers associated with the prison were suspended with immediate effect.
The DG of Prisons visited the Bengaluru Central Prison on Monday morning to continue the investigation. When questioned about transferring Darshan to another facility, such as Hindalga Jail, HM Parameshwara stated that the department is considering the option.