Have the Excavations in Dharmasthala Revealed the Truth Behind the Mass Grave Case?
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Synopsis
The SIT's excavation of a sixth burial site in Dharmasthala has unveiled significant discoveries that may lead to breakthroughs in the ongoing mass grave case. With recovered bones and a skull fragment, the investigation is now at a crucial juncture, drawing widespread attention and concern.
Key Takeaways
- SIT has completed excavations at the sixth burial site.
- Bones and a skull fragment were recovered.
- The investigation is ongoing and under scrutiny.
- Whistleblower claims to have buried multiple bodies.
- The findings are shocking and have drawn state-wide attention.
Mangaluru, July 31 (NationPress) The Special Investigation Team (SIT) investigating the allegations of a mass grave has concluded the excavation of the sixth burial site at a prominent Hindu pilgrimage location in Mangaluru district of Karnataka on Thursday.
In a significant breakthrough, the SIT has recovered bones from the sixth burial site earlier today.
This finding may serve as a crucial turning point in the ongoing inquiry into the mass grave claims in the Dharmasthala temple town.
The whistleblower and complainant have identified a total of 13 mass burial locations.
SIT sources report that between 10 to 12 bones, comprising hand and leg bones, were unearthed from the forested sixth burial site.
Additionally, authorities collected a skull fragment.
"Following this recovery, the SIT has shifted its focus to a meticulous and thorough excavation of the site, with the entire team redirected to aid in the process. Upon conclusion of the excavation, the mahazar process was finalized. Due to water seepage, iron pipes and sheets have been placed around the burial site," sources stated.
The excavation is being conducted under the supervision of the Tehsildar, forensic science specialists, and SIT personnel.
Authorities are exercising caution during the excavation process.
The retrieved bones will be documented and sent to the Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) for detailed examination and DNA testing.
Sources also disclosed that the whistleblower claimed to have buried eight bodies at this sixth burial site.
However, no official announcement has been made regarding this discovery.
In the meantime, Director General of Police and Inspector General of Police M.A. Saleem has mandated the deployment of nine additional police personnel—including a head constable and several constables—to assist the SIT in its ongoing investigation.
Excavations at the designated burial sites continued on Thursday, despite rainfall.
Civic workers, along with Tehsildars, forensic science experts, and the complainant, are present to oversee the digging.
SIT Chief Pronab Mohanty previously mentioned that nothing had been recovered from the burial sites excavated until now.
Nevertheless, reports indicate that SIT investigators have found a red torn blouse and a PAN card belonging to a woman named Lakshmi at the first burial site.
Additionally, the whistleblower and complainant have allegedly provided a skull, purportedly excavated from the burial site, to the SIT.
On July 11, the unidentified complainant, who claimed to have been coerced into burying multiple bodies of women and girls who were raped and murdered in Dharmasthala village, appeared in court in Mangaluru district to record his statement.
He requested the police to exhume the bodies in his presence.
He also alleged that the bodies of the women displayed clear indications of sexual assault.
They were found without clothing or undergarments and had injuries indicating violent sexual acts.
These revelations have shocked the entire state.
A retired Supreme Court judge and activists are urging for a SIT investigation overseen by the Supreme Court or the High Court concerning the disturbing Dharmasthala murders involving numerous women, girls, and vulnerable men.
This development has ignited a major controversy.
Point of View
My perspective on the Dharmasthala mass grave case underscores the importance of thorough and impartial investigations. The SIT's work is critical in uncovering the truth, ensuring justice for the victims, and restoring public trust in law enforcement. The ongoing developments highlight the need for transparency and accountability in such sensitive matters.
NationPress
21/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current status of the SIT investigation?
The SIT has completed excavation at the sixth burial site and recovered bones, which will undergo forensic examination.
What has been discovered so far in the mass grave case?
The SIT has recovered hand and leg bones, as well as a skull fragment, during their excavations at various sites.
Who is the whistleblower in this case?
The whistleblower claims to have buried multiple bodies of women and girls who were victims of violence, and has provided information on several burial sites.
What will happen to the recovered bones?
The recovered bones will be sent to the Forensic Science Laboratory for further examination and DNA analysis.
How is the investigation being monitored?
The excavation is supervised by the Tehsildar and forensic experts, with police presence to ensure safety and proper documentation.
