What Actions Will Be Taken After the Dharmasthala Clash?

Bengaluru, Aug 7 (NationPress) In light of the recent clash between two factions and the violence against YouTubers and media representatives in the sacred town of Dharmasthala, linked to the claimed mass grave incident, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah declared on Thursday that measures will be initiated against anyone found culpable.

Speaking to the press in Bengaluru, CM Siddaramaiah affirmed, "Anyone who is guilty will face consequences. We will pursue legal action. The law applies equally to all."

In response to the situation, Mangaluru District Incharge Minister and Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao remarked, "We must act decisively based on evidence, and we are maintaining a transparent and unbiased approach. We are neither supporting nor opposing any party. The investigation will proceed based on the allegations presented. I have stated clearly that the Mangaluru police are more than capable of handling the case, eliminating the need for a Special Investigation Team (SIT)."

"However, given the strong demands from various groups, particularly those leaning left, for an SIT probe, one was established. They are now diligently conducting their investigation," he added.

"We must rely on the evidence rather than on hearsay. Anyone can make claims or propose theories. Our focus must be on the facts. According to the law, action will be taken against those at fault. Legal steps will follow," emphasized Minister Rao.

Minister for RDPR, IT, and BT Priyank Kharge, addressing the events, stated, "The investigation remains active, and we must exercise caution at this juncture. It is unacceptable to disseminate false information. Targeting individuals or the government should be avoided as well."

"No one has the right to take the law into their own hands," he insisted.

Meanwhile, the Dharmasthala police have filed four FIRs in response to the various complaints and counter-complaints stemming from the clashes associated with the mass grave case. Media representatives and YouTubers were assaulted on Wednesday evening.

The atmosphere in the temple town of Dharmasthala became volatile following an attack on YouTubers near Nethravathi Pangala Cross on Wednesday evening, linked to the ongoing mass grave inquiry. Police reported that local residents targeted the YouTubers, accusing them of disseminating false claims about the Hindu pilgrimage site and its temple administration.

Authorities indicated that two to three vehicles were damaged during the incident, prompting police to resort to a lathi charge to disperse the crowd. Four individuals, including three YouTubers, were hospitalized. Soon after, another group arrived to support the YouTubers, resulting in confrontations with locals. Both factions engaged in physical altercations and stone-throwing.