Is There a Conspiracy Against Dharmasthala?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- D.K. Shivakumar highlights a conspiracy against Dharmasthala.
- The formation of a Special Investigation Team has been announced.
- Accusations arise from internal disputes.
- Political leaders call for unity and justice.
- Millions of devotees are ready to protest.
Bengaluru, Aug 14 (NationPress) Karnataka's Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar stated on Thursday that there is a significant conspiracy aimed at damaging the reputation of the Hindu pilgrimage site Dharmasthala.
In a session of the Legislative Assembly, Shivakumar remarked, “I have faith in Dharmasthala and its governing body. The Home Minister will clarify the rationale behind the establishment of a Special Investigation Team (SIT). This site attracts millions of devotees; let’s refrain from politicizing the issue.”
“Why is the Congress party involved in this situation? Don’t implicate the Congress leadership unnecessarily. The Dharmadhikari of Dharmasthala has been devoted to service; we have no doubts about that. Allegations have arisen due to internal discord. When numerous complaints are received, the Home Minister or the government cannot overlook them. We hold the sanctity of Dharmasthala in higher regard than you,” stated Shivakumar.
Later, addressing the press, he expressed, “A plot is underway to dismantle centuries of heritage in Dharmasthala. It is unjust to malign someone without cause. This situation has stemmed from a singular complainant.”
“Numerous individuals have raised concerns regarding this matter. I have advised that action be taken against those misleading the investigation. The Chief Minister has also indicated that measures should be taken against such individuals. I possess information regarding this case. Dharma (religion) must not be defamed. Offenders must face justice,” he added.
When asked about the BJP alleging that the Congress is attempting to damage Dharmasthala's reputation, he responded, “The Congress party will not permit any harm to the image of religious sites. We regard all religions equally.”
In the meantime, BJP State President and MLA B.Y. Vijayendra, during the State Legislative Assembly session, insisted that the SIT investigating the allegations against Dharmasthala must release an interim report. He emphasized the need for an investigation into the masked individual further.
He stated that Sri Kshetra Dharmasthala is not merely a site of faith, questioning who is influencing the SIT investigation and which organizations are applying pressure.
He claimed that an international smear campaign is being waged against the sacred site, hurting the sentiments of Hindus. Millions of devotees are ready to protest. This should not become a hit-and-run case, he stressed.
“Who is this masked individual? What is their background?” he inquired, adding that an investigation into this matter is warranted.
“The day after the announcement that an SIT investigation would not occur, an SIT was established. If that is the case, which organizations pressured the Chief Minister? Why was the identity of the masked person not clarified before the investigation commenced?” he questioned.
Vijayendra reiterated that millions of devotees are protesting and have called for a thorough investigation. However, there is a frenzy of excavation that is affecting people's religious feelings. This should not devolve into a hit-and-run case. The SIT must issue an interim report on the investigation. The masked individual and the group behind them must be identified and examined.
He further insisted that the case should not be dismissed merely because human remains were not discovered. An inquiry must be conducted to uncover who is orchestrating this conspiracy, Vijayendra asserted.