Is the Dharmasthala Mass Grave Case Unfolding Further?
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Synopsis
As the investigation into the mass grave allegations at a renowned pilgrimage center in Mangaluru unfolds, the Special Investigation Team has been tirelessly digging at marked sites for three days. The claims of buried bodies raise urgent questions that the SIT is striving to answer amidst growing public interest.
Key Takeaways
- Excavation at burial sites continues amid challenging weather conditions.
- The SIT has not yet uncovered significant evidence.
- Public involvement is encouraged through a dedicated helpline.
- The investigation reveals concerns about missing women in the area.
- Authorities are prioritizing transparency in this sensitive case.
Mangaluru (Karnataka), July 31 (NationPress) The excavation at the designated burial sites has persisted for a third day on Thursday, undeterred by rain, all under the vigilant eye of the Special Investigation Team (SIT) amid the mass grave allegations linked to a notable pilgrimage site in Mangaluru district.
Out of the 13 identified burial sites, work is currently focused on sites numbered 6, 7, and 8.
Civic workers are actively engaged in the digging operations, accompanied by tehsildars, forensic specialists, and the complainant to supervise the efforts.
SIT Chief Pronab Mohanty has reported that no significant items have been uncovered from the sites excavated thus far.
Nevertheless, there are claims that investigators found a torn red blouse and a PAN card belonging to a woman named Lakshmi at the first burial site.
Moreover, the whistleblower and complainant in this case has allegedly handed over a skull — purportedly excavated from the burial site — to the SIT.
In a related development, it has been reported that the SIT has requested a list of police personnel who have served at the Dharmasthala police station since 1995 and is compiling information on missing women and girls across the state.
In response to the controversy regarding SIT chief Pronab Mohanty being considered for central deputation, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah mentioned in Bengaluru that if he is assigned to central services, a new SIT Chief will be appointed.
The Congress-led government is approaching the mass grave allegations with careful consideration, given the delicacy of the situation.
Sources have indicated that the state government has opted not to request an interim report from the SIT regarding the investigation's progress. Instead, the SIT has been instructed to provide oral updates to Home Minister G. Parameshwara regularly.
Additionally, the state leadership has briefed the party high command about ongoing developments in this case.
Furthermore, the SIT has established an office and a helpline for citizens to report any information related to the mass grave allegations.
A dedicated phone number, WhatsApp contact, and an email address have been made available, encouraging the public to reach out to the team between 10 A.M. and 5 P.M.
Sources have also suggested that the excavation of all 13 marked burial sites is anticipated to conclude within the next two days.
Given the sensitivity of the case, authorities have organized three teams to supervise the excavation process.
The work will proceed in the presence of three tehsildars, and since all three sites among the 13 are situated within a reserve forest near the Nethravathi River, the SIT is compelled to rely on manual labor for the excavation.
The complainant, claiming to have buried numerous bodies of women and young girls allegedly subjected to rape and murder, is accompanying the SIT team, wearing a suit and mask to protect his identity due to perceived threats against his life and family.
Point of View
The Dharmasthala mass grave case represents a critical intersection of justice and community trust. The ongoing investigation by the SIT necessitates transparency and diligence, ensuring that the voices of those affected are heard while maintaining public confidence in law enforcement.
NationPress
21/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Dharmasthala mass grave case about?
The Dharmasthala mass grave case concerns allegations of numerous bodies buried at a pilgrimage site in Mangaluru, prompting a thorough investigation by the Special Investigation Team (SIT).
What has been discovered so far during the excavation?
To date, the SIT has not recovered significant findings from the burial sites, though reports indicate the discovery of a torn blouse and a PAN card belonging to a woman named Lakshmi.
What steps is the SIT taking in the investigation?
The SIT is actively excavating marked burial sites, collecting evidence, and has set up a helpline for the public to report any relevant information.
Why is the case being handled with caution?
Given the sensitivity surrounding the allegations of mass graves and potential victims, the Karnataka government is proceeding carefully to maintain public trust and ensure thorough investigations.
How can the public assist the SIT?
The SIT has established a helpline and encourages the public to share any pertinent information regarding the case during designated hours.
