What’s Unfolding in the Dharmasthala Mass Burial Case?
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Synopsis
The ongoing excavation at Dharmasthala has taken a dramatic turn as the SIT uncovers a mass burial site, with alarming discoveries that raise questions about the handling of the case. As the investigation deepens, authorities are racing to uncover the truth behind the skeletal remains found. What will the next steps reveal?
Key Takeaways
- Seventh day of excavation at Dharmasthala ongoing.
- Discovery of 114 bones raises significant questions.
- Skeletal remains found with evidence of strangulation.
- Continued investigations by the SIT are crucial for justice.
- Community concerns about law enforcement procedures.
Mangaluru, Aug 5 (NationPress) The Special Investigation Team (SIT) has commenced its excavation efforts for the seventh consecutive day on Tuesday at Dharmasthala, a renowned Hindu pilgrimage site in Karnataka, linked to the mass burial case.
Authorities are currently conducting digging operations at the designated burial site number 11.
In the meantime, it has been reported that the bones unearthed from a previously unidentified burial site, now labeled as burial site number 14, have been dispatched for a medical examination.
Approximately 114 bones were retrieved from this unexpected site on Monday, raising new inquiries about the excavation efforts in the Banglagudde area.
Sources indicate that the skeletal remains discovered were found with the neck area strangled using a saree. The bones have been sent to KMC Hospital in Udupi for forensic analysis to extract more information.
A red saree was also recovered from the same location.
Initial evaluations suggest that the skeleton is male and was found about two to three feet below the surface at the unexpected burial site. Nevertheless, an official update from the SIT is still pending.
At burial site number 11, authorities have excavated to a depth of five feet without uncovering any bones or relevant items.
Shortly after excavation commenced at burial site number 11, the unidentified complainant, who also acted as a whistleblower, directed authorities to a nearby location. This new site yielded multiple bones and a skull.
Additionally, T. Jayanth, a social activist and resident of Ichilampadi village in Mangaluru district, lodged a complaint with the SIT on Monday, alleging that a police officer had buried a minor girl's body without adhering to legal protocols.
Previously, SIT Chief Mohanty had indicated that no significant materials had been uncovered from earlier excavated sites. However, later reports revealed the recovery of a red, torn blouse and a PAN card belonging to a woman named Lakshmi from the initial burial site.
The whistleblower also reportedly presented a skull, claimed to have been retrieved from one of the burial sites, to the SIT.
Point of View
The need for thoroughness and transparency is paramount. The revelations surrounding the skeletal remains found raise significant concerns about procedural integrity and the need for justice. The National Editor-in-Chief emphasizes the importance of supporting the SIT in their efforts to uncover the truth behind these grim discoveries.
NationPress
07/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current status of the Dharmasthala excavation?
The excavation has entered its seventh day, with authorities uncovering bones from a previously unidentified burial site.
How many bones were found at the recent excavation site?
Approximately 114 bones were recovered from the unexpected burial site.
What did the preliminary findings suggest about the skeleton?
Initial assessments indicate that the skeleton is male and was discovered with evidence of strangulation using a saree.
What actions have been taken by the SIT regarding the findings?
The bones have been sent for forensic examination, and a red saree was also recovered from the site.
Who made the allegations regarding the burial of a minor girl?
T. Jayanth, a local social activist, has lodged a complaint with the SIT alleging improper burial procedures by a police officer.
