Is the Mass Grave Case: SIT Chief Mohanty’s Central Posting Subject to State Govt Approval?
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Synopsis
Karnataka's Home Minister G. Parameshwara clarifies the status of SIT Chief Pronab Mohanty's potential central posting amidst ongoing investigations into the Dharmasthala mass grave case. With questions swirling regarding his transfer, Parameshwara insists on the state's authority in the matter, emphasizing the ongoing probe's significance.
Key Takeaways
- Pronab Mohanty remains the Chief of the SIT investigating the Dharmasthala mass grave case.
- The Karnataka government emphasizes its authority over his potential central posting.
- There is no formal request for Mohanty's release to the Centre as of now.
- The government is addressing misinformation and hate speech related to the case.
- The SIT is actively excavating sites linked to the case.
Bengaluru, Aug 1 (NationPress) In light of the ongoing debate regarding the selection of Special Investigation Team (SIT) Chief Pronab Mohanty for a central posting, Karnataka's Home Minister G. Parameshwara emphasized that the authority to relieve him rests exclusively with the state government, labeling the current discussions as a needless controversy.
The potential central deputation of Mohanty, who also holds the position of Director General of Police (DGP) overseeing the Internal Security Division (ISD) and is recognized as a principled officer, has ignited significant discourse. The timing of his possible transfer -- coinciding with an escalated investigation into the Dharmasthala mass grave case -- has sparked apprehensions and inquiries.
While addressing reporters in Bengaluru on Friday, Parameshwara remarked, “Pronab Mohanty remains the Chief of the SIT examining the Dharmasthala matter. The issue of his departure from the SIT has not even been considered. The procedure for his transfer to a central role has not commenced. The Centre must first communicate with us to request his release for a specific position, and it is ultimately our decision whether to approve his transfer to central services or not.”
“No such request has been made yet. This is merely an empanelment, and an unnecessary uproar is being stirred over it. He is only eligible for a Central government position, and that is the extent of it,” Parameshwara clarified.
Regarding the confusion surrounding the empanelment process, he added, “When the Centre empanels IPS officers from across the nation for Central services, it evaluates factors such as seniority, background, competencies, and prior postings. Based on this, they compile names for Central roles.”
“It is a matter of pride for our state that DGP Pronab Mohanty's name has been included in the shortlist. This does not imply an immediate posting. He came to inform me regarding the empanelment,” stated the Home Minister.
Parameshwara also elaborated that, “We are currently developing regulations concerning fake news and online gambling. As the head of the ISD, Pronab Mohanty oversees these matters. I convened a meeting regarding these issues, and he was present to brief me on the situation. Beyond that, no further discussions occurred.”
Reaffirming his earlier comments, he stated, “Pronab Mohanty continues to spearhead the SIT in the Dharmasthala case. I have reiterated this -- until the SIT submits its report, we will not publicly discuss the matter or issue statements, as it would be inappropriate while the investigation is in progress.”
When questioned about the spread of rumors and misinformation regarding the Dharmasthala case, Parameshwara stated, “We are vigilantly monitoring these developments. If such information stirs unrest in society, we will take action to mitigate it. The government has already instituted guidelines to combat hate speech, and we will implement similar measures in this instance.”
“If it leads to communal content or inflammatory postings in Mangaluru district, we will issue warnings and take stringent action, as we have done to some extent already. If there are unfounded or provocative posts related to the Dharmasthala case, we will regulate and respond accordingly. Such matters will not be overlooked,” he concluded.
The SIT investigating the mass burial case is currently excavating suspected sites situated near the banks of the River Nethravathi, at a Hindu pilgrimage center in Karnataka's Mangaluru district, for the fourth consecutive day on Friday.
Point of View
It is essential to acknowledge the complexity of the situation surrounding SIT Chief Pronab Mohanty's potential transfer. The Karnataka government's stance, emphasizing its authority over such decisions, reflects broader themes of governance and accountability in high-profile investigations. The ongoing inquiry into the Dharmasthala mass grave case remains critical, and it is vital for authorities to maintain transparency and integrity throughout the process.
NationPress
08/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main issue regarding SIT Chief Pronab Mohanty's central posting?
The main issue revolves around the controversy surrounding his potential transfer to a central position amid the ongoing investigation into the Dharmasthala mass grave case. Karnataka's Home Minister G. Parameshwara has clarified that the state government holds the authority to decide on his release for such a posting.
Why is the timing of Mohanty's potential deputation significant?
The timing is significant because it coincides with an intensified investigation into the Dharmasthala mass grave case, causing concerns about the implications of his transfer during this critical period.
What has the Karnataka government stated about the process of Mohanty's deputation?
The Karnataka government has stated that the process for Mohanty's deputation to a central post has not begun, and they are yet to receive a formal request from the Centre for his release.
What measures are being taken to address misinformation regarding the case?
The government is closely monitoring developments related to misinformation and has established guidelines to curb hate speech. They are prepared to act if any content leads to unrest in society.
What is the current status of the SIT's investigation into the mass burial case?
The SIT is currently excavating suspected sites near the banks of the River Nethravathi in Mangaluru district as part of their ongoing investigation into the mass burial case.
