Will the Dharmasthala Murder Excavations by SIT Conclude Soon?

Bengaluru, Aug 14 (NationPress) In response to inquiries from BJP leaders regarding the number of sites the Special Investigation Team (SIT) plans to excavate in relation to the mass grave investigation, Karnataka's Home Minister G. Parameshwara stated on Thursday that this operation will conclude shortly.

He emphasized, "This must come to an end, and we will bring it to a close."

Addressing the BJP’s accusations that the government had colluded with specific groups to tarnish the reputation of Dharmasthala under the guise of investigations, Parameshwara remarked in the Legislative Assembly: "The police will not act based solely on the instructions of an unidentified complainant. The Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita includes provisions to penalize those who file false complaints."

He urged that the matter should not take on a political or religious angle, asserting, "Our administration did not form the SIT due to any external pressure. There is no pressure in this case — let me be clear about that."

Parameshwara stated, "I am addressing you as Home Minister. No one has yielded to pressure. Our aim is for the truth and justice to emerge in this case. I am a devotee of Dharmasthala and have visited the site numerous times. On one occasion, I was accompanied by the late former President APJ Abdul Kalam. The temple authorities showed no bias, despite his different religion. That reflects the esteemed reputation of the temple."

"Millions, even from other states, hold Dharmasthala in high regard. There should be no uncertainty about this. The Centre awarded the Padma Shri to Veerendra Heggade (the hereditary administrator of the Dharmasthala temple and BJP Rajya Sabha Member) for valid reasons. The organization he leads has empowered thousands of women in shaping their futures and careers. The SIT has been formed to address allegations against such a revered place. The truth must be unveiled through this investigation, which is the purpose of the SIT," he added.

He went on to state that the BJP continuously questions the government. "What actions has our government taken? We only seek the truth. None of us has made public comments or even contacted the SIT. I will provide a comprehensive statement on the matter on Monday (Aug 17)," he asserted.

The Karnataka BJP previously claimed that the Congress-led government in the state has allied with divisive forces to damage the reputation of the Hindu pilgrimage site Dharmasthala concerning the alleged mass grave situation.