In response to growing nationwide outrage over chilling allegations of crimes against women and the discovery of unidentified graves in the temple town of Dharmasthala, the Karnataka government has transferred the investigation to a Special Investigation Team (SIT) led by senior IPS officers.
The controversy, which has shocked the public and drawn widespread media attention, gained momentum after reports emerged of a human skull being recovered and a court testimony alleging that hundreds of bodies may be buried in the area. The case also includes serious accusations of rape, unnatural deaths, and disappearances — including that of a medical student whose family has spoken out.
In a significant development on Sunday, Sri Kshetra Dharmasthala, the religious institution at the heart of the scandal, broke its silence. In its first official response, the institution distanced itself from the allegations and expressed full support for the SIT probe.
“It is our sincere hope and earnest demand that the SIT conducts the highest level of investigation and brings the true facts to light,” said K Parshwanath Jain, spokesperson for the institution, as quoted by news agency PTI. “Truth and belief form the cornerstone of social trust,” he added, urging a thorough and impartial inquiry.
The case, which was originally filed at the Dharmasthala police station, remains in its early stages, with the government and police yet to make formal comments on the nature or extent of the alleged crimes.
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, addressing the seriousness of the situation, posted on social media platform X:
“In the Dharmasthala region, an individual has recorded a statement in court claiming that hundreds of bodies have been buried... There is a possibility that unnatural deaths, murders, rapes, and other serious crimes may have occurred in this area.”
As the SIT commences its investigation, calls for transparency, accountability, and swift justice continue to echo across the state and the country.
(This story is published from a syndicated feed)