Have Developments in the Dharmasthala Murders Investigation Hurt Devotees’ Sentiments?
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Synopsis
The recent investigation into the alleged Dharmasthala murders has sparked concern among devotees, as the Karnataka BJP claims their sentiments have been negatively impacted. This article delves into the ongoing developments and their implications for the community.
Key Takeaways
- Recent developments in the Dharmasthala murders investigation have raised emotional concerns among devotees.
- The BJP has voiced that the ongoing probe is causing distress to millions.
- Excavations have discovered human remains tied to grave allegations.
- Activists are demanding higher court oversight of the SIT’s investigation.
- Transparency and truth remain pivotal in addressing community concerns.
Bengaluru, Aug 12 (NationPress) The Karnataka BJP has expressed that recent events concerning the investigation into the alleged Dharmasthala murders, led by the Special Investigation Team (SIT), have deeply offended the feelings of millions of followers of the deity Manjunatheshwara.
During a press conference in Bengaluru on Tuesday, Karnataka BJP President and MLA, B.Y. Vijayendra, made these remarks in response to inquiries about the ongoing investigation.
"Is the SIT investigating the Dharmasthala murders on the wrong track?" he questioned.
"The Social Democratic Party of India (SDPI) and Communists are behind these developments, which have raised doubts. We plan to address this in the Assembly. While we do not oppose the SIT investigation, the truth must emerge. However, the feelings of millions of devotees of Dharmasthala Manjunatheshwara are being impacted by these unfolding events, which is unacceptable," Vijayendra stated.
"We will bring this matter up and demand explanations from the state government," he added.
The excavation of burial sites commenced on July 29, with the team having completed work at 12 locations thus far. Human remains were discovered at the sixth excavation point. The team is gearing up to excavate the 13th burial site on Tuesday, utilizing drone-mounted Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR).
This situation has gained importance as an unknown complainant has alleged that he buried over a dozen deceased women and girls who had reportedly been subjected to sexual violence.
SIT Chief, DGP Pronab Mohanty, is anticipated to supervise today’s excavation activities. Completing the digging at the 13th burial site will conclude the first phase of the investigation.
A significant development occurred on July 11 when an unidentified complainant — who claimed he was coerced into burying the bodies of women and girls who had been raped and killed in Dharmasthala — appeared in a Mangaluru district court and provided his testimony.
He requested to be present during the exhumation and alleged that the victims exhibited evident signs of sexual assault. According to him, the bodies were discovered devoid of clothing or undergarments and bore injuries consistent with severe sexual violence.
These disclosures have sent shockwaves throughout Karnataka.
In light of these claims, a former Supreme Court judge and several activists have called for a Supreme Court or High Court-monitored SIT investigation into the alleged Dharmasthala murders, which may involve the deaths of numerous women, girls, and destitute men.
Previously, SIT Chief Mohanty mentioned that no significant evidence had been recovered from the earlier excavated sites. However, subsequent reports indicated that a torn red blouse and a PAN card belonging to a woman named Lakshmi were found at the first burial site.
Furthermore, the whistleblower allegedly submitted a skull — purportedly retrieved from one of the burial locations — to the SIT.
On August 7, Karnataka Home Minister G. Parameshwara confirmed that the SIT investigating the alleged mass grave case has uncovered a male skeleton and bones during the excavation, which have been sent to the Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL).
Point of View
It is crucial to approach the situation with an unbiased perspective. While the BJP expresses concern over the emotional impact on devotees, the pursuit of truth must remain paramount. Ensuring justice and transparency in this sensitive case is essential for the community and for maintaining faith in the investigative process.
NationPress
05/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Dharmasthala murders case about?
The Dharmasthala murders case involves allegations of multiple murders, particularly of women and girls, purportedly connected to sexual violence, with ongoing investigations led by the SIT.
Why has the BJP expressed concern?
The Karnataka BJP has raised concerns that the developments in the investigation are hurting the sentiments of millions of devotees of Manjunatheshwara.
What has the SIT found so far in their investigation?
The SIT has excavated several burial sites, discovering human remains and other evidence, including a torn blouse and a PAN card belonging to a woman named Lakshmi.
What are the demands from activists regarding the case?
Activists and a retired Supreme Court judge have called for a Supreme Court or High Court-monitored investigation into the alleged Dharmasthala murders.
What is the current status of the investigation?
The SIT is in the process of excavating burial sites, with recent operations revealing human remains and other relevant evidence.
