The Karnataka Police have issued a notice to a sub-inspector for permitting Pavithra Gowda, the primary accused in the murder of Renukaswamy, to wear makeup while under lockup in the state women’s home. Gowda is currently in judicial custody at Parappana Agrahara, along with Kannada actor Darshan Thoogudeepa, the second accused in the murder case.

The incident came to light when Pavithra was found to have used makeup while being transported to the Annapoorneshwari Nagar Police Station for questioning. Deputy Commissioner (West) S Girish stated that Gowda likely kept her makeup kit in her bag while lodged at the state home every night during police custody.

“The lady PSI, who was responsible for escorting her to the AP Nagar police station, should have noticed and prevented this. For this negligence, she has been issued a notice seeking an explanation,” the DCP said.

Pavithra and Darshan are accused of brutally assaulting and killing Renukaswamy, a fan of the actor, after he allegedly sent offensive messages and photos to Pavithra. The victim’s body was discovered on June 9 near a stormwater drain adjacent to an apartment in Sumanahalli, Bengaluru. The post-mortem report confirmed that Renukaswamy died due to shock and haemorrhage caused by multiple blunt injuries.

A total of 17 individuals, including Pavithra and Darshan, are currently in judicial custody in connection with the murder case. Police sources reveal that Renukaswamy’s obscene messages to Gowda enraged Darshan, allegedly leading to the murder and subsequent disposal of the body in a canal in Bengaluru.