Will the Dharmasthala mass burial case lead to justice?
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Synopsis
The ongoing investigation by the Special Investigation Team (SIT) into the unsettling Dharmasthala mass burial case has reached a pivotal moment, with exhumations underway. As the authorities delve deeper into the case, revelations about missing individuals and the conditions of buried bodies raise urgent questions about justice and accountability.
Key Takeaways
- SIT completes exhumation at second burial site.
- Challenges include heavy rain and difficult terrain.
- Investigation reveals shocking allegations of violence.
- Authorities are focused on accountability and transparency.
- Public interest in the case remains high.
Mangaluru, July 30 (NationPress) The Special Investigation Team (SIT), investigating the mass burial case in Karnataka's Mangaluru, has successfully completed the exhumation at the second burial site on Wednesday.
The exhumation process continues at the third and fourth sites, which are located deep in the forest and in close proximity to each other.
The whistleblower originally identified 13 burial sites. Authorities had finished exhuming the first site on Tuesday. The excavation has faced challenges due to water infiltration at the sites. Despite heavy rainfall, workers are diligently continuing their tasks without interruption, taking breaks for rest and meals in rotation, as per sources.
The teams have accessed the forest sites via narrow paths while carrying necessary equipment. A team consisting of tehsildars, doctors, forensic science laboratory (FSL) experts, and SIT investigators is present on-site to oversee the careful excavation.
Approximately 20 civic workers are engaged in the digging operations, and when combined with SIT personnel, a total of 30 members are involved in the efforts. All 13 identified burial sites are being closely monitored by armed police personnel around the clock.
The SIT has yet to release any official updates regarding the investigation's progress.
Regarding SIT Chief Pronab Mohanty being shortlisted for central deputation, Karnataka Home Minister G. Parameshwara mentioned, "If DGP Pronab Mohanty is shortlisted for central deputation, we will evaluate if he can continue to serve as the SIT Chief. If regulations allow, he will remain. Otherwise, we will appoint a qualified officer of equivalent rank."
It is noteworthy that Pronab Mohanty is the only officer from Karnataka among the 35 IPS officers shortlisted nationwide for central deputation.
When questioned about reports of the SIT recovering nothing from the excavation sites, Parameshwara chose not to comment.
"I will refrain from commenting on the SIT investigation while it is ongoing. Once the investigation concludes and the report is submitted, we will make further statements. Until then, we have decided to avoid public comments on this matter," he stated.
Meanwhile, Leader of the Opposition R. Ashoka remarked, "Let the SIT carry out its investigation regarding the mass grave allegations. I have not exonerated anyone. I support the inquiry and will withhold further comments."
BJP MP Captain Brijesh Chowta, representing the Mangaluru Lok Sabha constituency, expressed in Bengaluru that all BJP legislators support the SIT investigation. "The government has established the SIT. The report should be expedited, and the findings must be communicated to the public promptly," he urged.
On Tuesday, SIT investigators excavated the first burial location near the Nethravathi bathing point. Authorities dug to a depth of 8 feet and a width of 15 feet. However, sources confirmed that no skeletons or skulls were discovered at this site, which was later refilled.
The complainant alleged that he had buried the bodies in trenches approximately 3 to 3.5 feet deep.
The complainant claimed that the bodies of the women he buried exhibited clear signs of sexual assault.
They were discovered without clothing or undergarments and bore injuries indicative of violence.
These revelations have sent shockwaves across the state.
In a significant development related to the investigation into the mass grave at a prominent Hindu pilgrimage center in Mangaluru district, Advocate Manjunath N. reported on Wednesday that sources have confirmed that SIT officials recovered a torn red blouse and a PAN card belonging to a female individual at the first burial site. However, no official statement has been released by the SIT in this matter.
Advocate Manjunath represents Sujata Bhat, whose daughter, Ananya Bhat, a medical student, went missing under suspicious circumstances in the Dharmasthala region back in 2003.
Point of View
It is crucial to prioritize transparency and justice. The SIT's meticulous work is vital for ensuring accountability and restoring public trust. While the situation is sensitive, it is imperative to respect the ongoing investigation and allow the authorities to reveal their findings responsibly.
NationPress
31/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Dharmasthala mass burial case?
The Dharmasthala mass burial case involves the investigation of multiple burial sites in Karnataka, where there are allegations of bodies being buried under suspicious circumstances.
Who is leading the investigation?
The investigation is being led by the Special Investigation Team (SIT) formed by the Karnataka government.
What challenges is the SIT facing in the investigation?
The SIT is encountering challenges such as water seepage in the excavation sites and difficult access to remote forest locations.
What have the authorities found so far?
As of now, no skeletons or skulls have been discovered at the first excavation site, though reports suggest other items have been recovered.
Why is this investigation significant?
This case is significant due to the serious allegations of sexual assault and the need for justice for the victims and their families.
