The investigation of the mass burial case in Karnataka's Dharmasthala has been fully entrusted to the Special Investigation Team (SIT). This case is making waves across the nation. Police records show that crime number 39/2025 was filed under section 211(A) of the Indian Penal Code at the Dharmasthala police station and was handed over to Karnataka Police's SIT on July 19, 2025, as mentioned on Wednesday.
The SIT completed excavation on site number 11A at Dharmasthala on August 6. On Monday, skeletal remains were unearthed from this location. As the excavations continued on Wednesday, bags of salt were discovered, which sources suggest might have been used to hasten the decomposition of bodies. After concluding the excavation, the SIT team returned to the Beltangady office with the complainant amid tight security.
Lawyers representing the complainant and witnesses also arrived in separate vehicles. SIT Chief Dr. Pranab Mohanty, DIG Anucheth, and SP C.A. Simon are personally overseeing this investigation. A senior police officer confirmed, "The search will continue on Thursday at site number 11A. Numerous scattered skeletons have been discovered here, necessitating further digging. The team will then proceed to site 13."
Skeletal Remains Cause Stir
UDR number 35/2025: Skeletons were found on July 31 during the SIT's excavation at a specific location.
UDR number 36/2025: On August 4, skeletons were discovered just beneath the surface at one site. This was recorded on August 5.
Complaint number 200/DPS/2025: A person named Jayant lodged a different complaint on August 4. This too was handed over to the SIT.
Source: aajtak
Sensational Accusations by Former Service Worker
The case took a dramatic turn when the complainant accompanied the SIT into the forest. According to sources, this individual is a former service worker who alleged that from 1995 to 2014, he was coerced into burying numerous bodies, including those of women and minors, displaying signs of sexual abuse. The complainant has also recorded his testimony in front of a magistrate.
Intense Security and Forensic Inspection
Heavy machinery and workers have been deployed at the new site. Forensic experts are preparing to conduct a comprehensive survey of the entire area. Although SIT officials are reticent to speak openly about recent developments, insiders believe this location could be crucial to the investigation. Following allegations of mass murder and burials in Dharmasthala over the past two decades, the SIT was formed.
Village Tension as Police Remain on High Alert
Meanwhile, the atmosphere in Dharmasthala village is tense. Clashes have erupted between the temple administration's supporters and protesters. People from both sides have gathered at the site, escalating the tension. The police have initiated stringent vigilance in the area to prevent any untoward incidents and maintain control. Tension further escalated when a YouTuber visited the victim Soujanya's house, reportedly related to a Big Boss contestant.
