Are Activists Accused in the Dharmasthala Mass Grave Probe? SIT Files 4,000-Page Charge Sheet
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Synopsis
The ongoing investigation into the shocking Dharmasthala mass grave case has reached a pivotal moment. The SIT is set to file a comprehensive charge sheet implicating activists in serious allegations, raising critical questions about accountability and justice in Karnataka's most alarming case this year.
Key Takeaways
- The SIT is preparing a 4,000-page charge sheet.
- Activists who raised the allegations are now being named as accused.
- Excavations have revealed human remains linked to serious allegations.
- Government meetings are ongoing to discuss the case's progress.
- Public interest in the case remains high due to its shocking nature.
Bengaluru, Nov 20 (NationPress) The Special Investigation Team (SIT) investigating the shocking mass grave case at the Dharmasthala Hindu pilgrimage centre in Karnataka is preparing to submit a 4,000-page charge sheet. This document will name the activists who made the allegations as accused, according to sources within the SIT.
The Karnataka Home Minister G. Parameshwara confirmed during a press briefing in Bengaluru on Thursday that the charge sheet is set for filing.
"We have authorized the SIT to file the charge sheet in the Dharmasthala case. It is at the discretion of the SIT to determine the submission date. They must file it within 90 days of the FIR, and they will comply with this timeline," he stated.
While he refrained from disclosing specifics about the investigation report, he assured that the information would be presented to the government once the charge sheet is submitted. He emphasized that the details will be clarified over time and that the SIT would keep the government informed, as it was established by the state.
Parameshwara mentioned that the issue had been extensively discussed in the last assembly session and noted that the government is obligated to share the findings with the House.
“Once the report is submitted, the public will learn the specifics of the conspiracy and the individuals involved, with a detailed explanation provided in the legislature during the upcoming winter session,” he added.
According to available information, SIT officer Jitendra Kumar Dayama is expected to file the charge sheet at the Belthangady JMFC court on Thursday.
The report has identified six individuals, including the enigmatic 'mask man' Chinnayya, alongside the activists. SIT officials have concluded that the complainant misled the authorities after an extensive interrogation in August.
The charge sheet includes statements from Chinnayya, details of excavations conducted at over 17 sites, investigative inquiries, and interviews with individuals connected to him. Additionally, supplementary materials such as photographs, videos, and statements have been appended to the charge sheet.
The Congress-led government convened a high-level meeting on Wednesday, chaired by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah along with Parameshwara, state police chief IGP M.A. Saleem, and SIT chief Pronab Mohanty, to discuss the case's progress.
This case drew national attention after Chinnayya alleged in July that he was compelled to bury the remains of women and girls purportedly raped and murdered in the village, which led to the establishment of the SIT.
Excavations in August uncovered a male skeleton and human bones, which were subsequently sent to the Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) for further analysis.
Chinnayya requested that the bodies be exhumed in his presence, leading to the discovery of bodies without clothing or undergarments, exhibiting injuries consistent with violent sexual abuse.
These alarming findings have caused widespread uproar across Karnataka.
Moreover, the arrested whistleblower reportedly submitted a skull, allegedly retrieved from one of the burial sites, to the SIT.
In light of these developments, he was granted police protection under the Witness Protection Act and provided necessary facilities.
Following the allegations, a retired Supreme Court judge and several activists have called for an SIT investigation under the oversight of either the Supreme Court or the High Court regarding the Dharmasthala murders.
On August 23, the SIT apprehended the unidentified complainant, referred to as the mask man, for allegedly providing false information in the Dharmasthala case. SIT officers interrogated him for over fifteen hours, concluding that he had misled the authorities.
On August 7, Parameshwara confirmed that the SIT had unearthed a male skeleton and various human bones from the designated locations. These remains were forwarded to the Forensic Science Laboratory.
He added, "The unidentified complainant alleged that he buried dead bodies at 13 locations. Based on his disclosures, the SIT excavated these sites. At the sixth site, a male skeleton was found, while the thirteenth location yielded no findings yet. Additionally, multiple bones were discovered at a new site."
Parameshwara stated that all findings are under examination and that the remains have been sent to the Forensic Science Laboratory.
Point of View
It is essential to approach this sensitive matter with integrity and impartiality. The revelations surrounding the Dharmasthala mass grave case highlight the complex interplay of activism, justice, and societal response. While the legal process unfolds, it is crucial to ensure that due process is respected and that all parties involved are granted fair treatment under the law. The transparency of the SIT's findings will be pivotal in restoring public trust and ensuring accountability.
NationPress
20/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Dharmasthala mass grave case about?
The case involves allegations of a mass grave related to the purported rape and murder of women and girls in the Dharmasthala region, leading to a significant investigation by the SIT.
Who has been named in the SIT charge sheet?
The charge sheet names activists, including the complainant known as the 'mask man,' who initially brought allegations of the mass grave to light.
What evidence has the SIT gathered?
The SIT has collected statements, excavation details from over 17 sites, and supplementary materials such as photographs and videos related to the case.
What actions have been taken against the complainant?
The SIT arrested the complainant, the 'mask man,' for allegedly providing false information during the investigation.
What are the next steps in the investigation?
The SIT is expected to file the charge sheet soon, and further proceedings will unfold in the Belthangady JMFC court.
