Overview
In response to public outcry over allegations of secret mass burials of women and children at Dharmasthala, the Karnataka government formed a Special Investigation Team (SIT) and the Dharmasthala temple administration has issued its first official statement supporting a transparent investigation.
Allegations of Mass Burials
- Allegations emerged that multiple women and children were secretly buried within the Dharmasthala temple premises between 1995 and 2014.
- The complaint was made by a 48-year-old Dalit man who previously worked as a sanitation worker for the temple administration.
- The complainant claimed to have been instructed to bury bodies and alleged some victims showed signs of sexual assault.
- Skeletal remains were handed over to the police, reportedly exhumed from one of the alleged burial sites.
- The case has generated widespread public debate and confusion across the country.
Formation of the Special Investigation Team (SIT)
- On July 19, the Karnataka government constituted an SIT to probe the mass burial allegations.
- The SIT is headed by DGP Pronab Mohanty, with members including DIG MN Anucheth, DCP Soumyalatha, and SP Jitendra Kumar Dayama.
- An FIR was registered at the Dharmasthala police station based on the complainant’s allegations.
Temple Administration's Response
- On July 20, the Dharmasthala temple authority issued its first public statement since the allegations broke.
- The temple expressed hope for a fair and transparent investigation by the SIT.
- The administration urged the SIT to bring the true facts to light, citing the importance of truth and belief for societal ethics and values.
Decisions
- Support for SIT investigation: The Dharmasthala temple formally expressed support for an impartial and thorough SIT-led inquiry.
Action Items
- TBD – SIT (DGP Pronab Mohanty and team): Conduct a comprehensive investigation into the mass burial allegations at Dharmasthala.
- TBD – Authorities: Analyze skeletal remains and other evidence submitted by the complainant.
- TBD – Temple Administration: Continue cooperation with the SIT and investigation process.