Should Deputy Chief Minister D. K. Shivakumar Initiate an Investigation Against 'Propaganda' Targeting Dharmasthala?
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Synopsis
BJP MLA C.N. Ashwath Narayan has raised concerns about the alleged propaganda against Dharmasthala. He urges Deputy Chief Minister D. K. Shivakumar to act and investigate the claims, emphasizing the need for truth in light of recent controversies.
Key Takeaways
- Investigation Initiated: Calls for an inquiry into alleged propaganda against Dharmasthala.
- Concern for Community: BJP emphasizes the distress caused to the Hindu community.
- Government Response: Congress government plans to take action against misinformation.
- Evidence Lacking: Excavations yielded no significant findings related to the mass grave claims.
- Political Accountability: Ongoing tensions highlight the need for transparency and truth.
Bengaluru, Aug 15 (NationPress) BJP MLA C.N. Ashwath Narayan emphasized that if Deputy Chief Minister D. K. Shivakumar genuinely has faith in Lord Manjunatheshwara, he ought to launch a comprehensive inquiry into those allegedly spreading propaganda against the revered Hindu pilgrimage site, Dharmasthala.
While addressing the press at the BJP headquarters in Bengaluru, he raised concerns about whether the patience and tolerance of the public were being tested regarding the Dharmasthala issue.
He condemned the portrayal of events surrounding Dharmasthala, questioning, "Did such an incident actually take place at Dharmasthala? YouTubers are commenting indiscriminately. On social media, they conduct their own investigations and pass judgments. This has caused considerable distress among the Hindu community and the devotees of Sri Manjunatheshwara."
Ashwath Narayan also voiced his disapproval of accusations aimed at the temple administration.
He reiterated, "In KG Halli and DJ Halli, someone made a post online, leading to the burning of police stations. Homes of legislators were set ablaze. Police vehicles were set on fire, and police personnel were attacked. At that time, the Congress party defended all this. Yet today, in Mangaluru district, if party supporters make a post on social media, FIRs are filed instantly. Why is the Home Department not taking legal measures or registering suo motu cases when posts are made regarding Dharmasthala or its authorities?"
Meanwhile, the Congress-led Karnataka government has asserted that it will take action against individuals involved in propaganda against the Hindu pilgrimage centre Dharmasthala in connection with the mass grave controversy.
In response to media inquiries near the KPCC office on Friday, the Deputy Chief Minister remarked, "The government is contemplating action against those who have misled and disseminated false information related to the Dharmasthala case."
In a significant turn of events, on July 11, an unnamed complainant in the case, who alleged coercion to bury several bodies of women who were raped and murdered in Dharmasthala village, appeared in court in Karnataka's Mangaluru district. The complainant demanded that the police exhume the bodies in his presence.
Despite the excavation of 17 burial sites, authorities were unable to find compelling evidence.
As no substantial evidence emerged after the excavation of 17 burial sites, the BJP has intensified its criticisms of the Congress-led government in the state.
The party has accused the Congress-led administration of colluding with anti-Hindu factions to tarnish the reputation of the pilgrimage centre and has demanded an interim report from the Home Minister.
Home Minister G. Parameshwara is expected to address the Legislative Assembly on the Dharmasthala case on August 18.
Point of View
It's critical to approach this issue with impartiality. The ongoing claims surrounding Dharmasthala's integrity touch on broader themes of religious sentiment and political accountability. The need for thorough investigation and transparency is paramount to maintaining public trust and communal harmony.
NationPress
20/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the BJP to call for an investigation into Dharmasthala?
BJP MLA C.N. Ashwath Narayan expressed concern over alleged propaganda against the pilgrimage site and urged Deputy Chief Minister D. K. Shivakumar to investigate these claims.
What accusations have been made against the temple authorities?
There have been allegations of misconduct related to a mass grave case, which the BJP contends is being misrepresented by the opposition.
How is the Congress government responding to these allegations?
The Congress-led Karnataka government has stated that it will take action against those spreading misinformation about Dharmasthala.
What developments have occurred in the mass grave case?
An unidentified complainant has alleged that they were forced to bury bodies, but subsequent excavations revealed no substantial evidence.
When is the Home Minister expected to address the Assembly about this case?
Home Minister G. Parameshwara is set to make a statement in the Legislative Assembly on August 18.
