Should the Dharmasthala Case Be Investigated by the NIA?

Bengaluru, Sep 4 (NationPress) A group of religious leaders known as 'Sanatan Sant Niyog' from Karnataka met with Union Home Minister Amit Shah in Delhi on Thursday. They urged that the high-profile Dharmasthala murder case be transferred to the National Investigation Agency (NIA). The delegation was headed by Vachanananda Swamiji of the Veerashaiva Lingayat Panchamasali Peeth located in Harihara, accompanied by seven other distinguished religious figures.

The seers presented a memorandum to HM Amit Shah, arguing that Dharmasthala is facing threats similar to those confronting other Hindu pilgrimage sites like Sabarimala and Tirupati.

While expressing no opposition to the ongoing Special Investigation Team (SIT) inquiry, the seers emphasized the necessity to uncover the conspiracy targeting the temple town of Dharmasthala, warranting the case's transfer to the NIA.

According to sources, HM Shah informed the delegation that he is actively monitoring the situation and that the matter will be raised in the upcoming Cabinet meeting for an appropriate resolution.

He assured the seers that new regulations would be established to curb propaganda and encouraged the delegation to persist in their efforts to spread awareness within their communities.

In a media interaction, Vachanananda Swamiji stated, "Amit Shah is well-informed about the developments surrounding the Dharmasthala case. He also gathered additional insights from us concerning the conspiracy against Dharmasthala and the current status of the SIT investigation. We expressed that the SIT formed by the state government lacks transparency. Amit Shah promised to examine the situation closely and render an appropriate decision."

The memorandum highlighted, "The unfolding situation at Sri Kshetra Dharmasthala and the ongoing issues concerning Dharmadhikari Veerendra Heggade are deeply troubling and unacceptable, marking a brazen attack on the principles of Sanatan and Jain Dharma. It is imperative that the government of India under your esteemed leadership takes swift action to identify and penalize the real perpetrators, setting a precedent for the future."

Furthermore, it emphasized, "The Sanatan and Jain communities have always advocated for peace, harmony, and have quietly contributed to India's development through education, philanthropy, and the preservation of its cultural heritage. Today, we find ourselves compelled to raise our collective voice for protection.

"We earnestly request the establishment of a protective law against propaganda, ensuring future generations of saints and devotees can practice and uphold Sanatan Dharma free from fear or insecurity. We humbly present this request before your esteemed leadership, with utmost respect."

In response to the demand for an NIA investigation into the Dharmasthala case, he remarked, "Initially, they rejected the SIT and are now calling for an NIA inquiry. The investigation's essence will remain unchanged."

Karnataka Home Minister Parameshwara mentioned on Thursday that claims regarding foreign funding in the mass grave case would need to be examined by the Central government. His comments hold significance amid escalating demands from the BJP, JD(S), and Hindu organizations for the case to be handed over to the NIA.

As per sources, the Directorate of Enforcement has been actively compiling data concerning foreign funding and scrutinizing the bank accounts of activists opposing the temple authorities.