Has a Male Skeleton and Bones Been Discovered at Dharmasthala Digging Sites? Karnataka HM Confirms

Mangaluru (Karnataka), Aug 7 (NationPress) — Karnataka's Home Minister G. Parameshwara has verified that the Special Investigation Team (SIT) investigating the suspected mass grave incident in the sacred town of Dharmasthala in Mangaluru district has unearthed a male skeleton along with human bones from designated burial sites, which have now been forwarded to the Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL).

Addressing the media in Bengaluru on Thursday, Minister Parameshwara mentioned, "The unidentified complainant alleged that he had buried corpses at 13 different locations. Based on his claims, the SIT conducted excavations. At the sixth site, a male skeleton was discovered, while the 13th site remains unexamined. Additionally, various bones were retrieved from a new area."

"All these findings are being meticulously analyzed, and the human remains have been dispatched to the Forensic Science Laboratory for further examination," HM Parameshwara stated.

This marks the first formal announcement regarding the discovery of human remains linked to the alleged Dharmasthala murder case.

When questioned about the possibility of excavating further sites beyond the 13 already identified, Parameshwara indicated that the decision rests with the SIT.

"We will not interfere in their course of action. Should they find credible evidence supporting the claims, they will proceed accordingly. If discrepancies arise, they will seek clarification from the complainant to ensure accurate information. The government will not impose any directives," he clarified.

Concerning recent confrontations in Dharmasthala and assaults on media personnel, HM Parameshwara remarked, "We have received reports of a clash between two factions in Dharmasthala on Wednesday. I have instructed the authorities to investigate and provide a comprehensive report detailing the incident's causes, responsible parties, and their motives. Although tensions are escalating, the underlying reasons remain unclear."

He continued, "Local community members had called for an SIT investigation. We took their request seriously and established the SIT. The anonymous complainant, while providing a statement before the Magistrate under Section 164, claimed to have buried numerous bodies. Given the magisterial directive to investigate all aspects of his testimony, we acted with urgency."

"The SIT has excavated 13 sites based on the complainant's account. A male skeleton was discovered at the sixth site, while the 13th site has yielded no findings yet. Additional bones were retrieved from a new location, with all remains sent to the FSL for analysis," he reiterated.

"Following these events, a clash erupted between two groups in Dharmasthala. Both cases and counter-cases have been filed. We have mandated a thorough investigation into the situation," he added.

Regarding the reported assaults on journalists and cameramen, HM Parameshwara stated, "It is alleged that two groups are involved. Complaints have been lodged from both sides, and investigations are underway. The SIT and local police will initiate further legal actions as required."

In response to another query, he emphasized, "At this juncture, individual statements hold little significance. What truly matters is that the SIT conducts a scientifically and technologically advanced inquiry to uncover the truth. That is the directive we have entrusted them with. Raising questions at this point serves no practical purpose."

"We have given the SIT full authority. Their primary responsibility is to deliver a thorough report. There are mixed opinions — some believe the SIT is performing well, while others criticize its efforts. Suggestions of utilizing Ground Penetrating Radar technology have surfaced, but can an investigation solely rely on public recommendations?" he questioned.

"The police are competent and will manage the situation effectively," he concluded.

In a significant update on July 11, 2025, an unidentified complainant — who claimed he was coerced into burying the bodies of women and girls who were victims of rape and murder in Dharmasthala — appeared before a court in Mangaluru district and provided his statement.

He requested that the bodies be exhumed in his presence and alleged that the victims displayed clear signs of sexual assault. According to him, the remains were found lacking clothing or undergarments and exhibited injuries indicative of violent sexual abuse.

These revelations have sent shockwaves throughout Karnataka and the entire country.

Following these claims, a retired Supreme Court judge and several activists called for a Supreme Court- or High Court-monitored SIT investigation into the case, which may involve the deaths of numerous women, girls, and vulnerable men.