Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru
Mangaluru, Sept 15: In a case that has sent shockwaves across coastal Karnataka, the Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing allegations of illegal human burials in Dharmasthala village has now received over 30 complaints—ranging from suspicious deaths to missing persons and unauthorised disposal of bodies.
The SIT is reportedly preparing to launch a full-scale investigation into selected cases, even as it faces mounting political pressure and startling claims that the entire controversy may be backed by foreign funding to malign the religious sanctity of the Dharmasthala temple.
The growing list of complaints includes accusations of missing persons, unnatural deaths, suspected murders, and the illegal disposal of bodies—allegedly carried out with the involvement of the local village panchayat and members of the police force.
Adding to the gravity, a few complainants have alleged a wider conspiracy aimed at damaging the reputation of the Dharmasthala temple, one of Karnataka’s most revered pilgrimage centres. They claim this campaign is being financially supported by foreign entities.
To review the investigation’s progress and determine the credibility of the complaints, SIT chief Pranab Mohanty convened a high-level meeting at the Beltangady office and he was joined by superintendents of police Jitendra Kumar Dayama, C A Simon, and other senior officers. The SIT is now sifting through the complaints to determine which merit deeper investigation and which can be closed due to insufficient evidence.
“We’ve received over 30 complaints, all of which are under scrutiny. If any are found to be lacking in substance, they will be closed with due process. However, a number of cases demand full-scale investigation, and further information needs to be collected,” a senior source revealed.
More bodies beneath the surface?
In a development that could mark a turning point in the investigation, a key witness recently led SIT officials to skeletal remains in the forests of Banglegudde. Upon inspection, additional human remains were reportedly discovered nearby.
The witness, Vittal Gowda, not only identified the precise spot to the SIT but also shared a video on social media that appeared to show the remains partially buried. SIT officers who accompanied him to the site are said to have seen the remains firsthand. Sources indicate that further excavation and forensic investigation at the location are now being planned.
Political pressure and public demands
Amid the ongoing investigation, former chief minister and current Member of Parliament Basavaraj Bommai has alleged that political interference is stalling the SIT’s progress, particularly in taking action against those believed to be orchestrating the alleged conspiracy.
“After the ‘Mask Man’ complaint was proven false, several other serious complaints have emerged. The SIT must uphold accountability and transparency. It’s time they issue an interim report detailing the progress of the investigation so far,” Bommai stated.
With public interest intensifying and more potential evidence surfacing, the SIT is under growing pressure to conduct a transparent, impartial, and thorough probe.