- Karnataka Home Minister G Parameshwara briefed the state assembly on the Dharmasthala mass burials case.
- The investigation originated from a complainant who has been granted witness protection.
- Skeletal remains were found at two locations and have been sent for forensic analysis.
GG News Bureau
Bengaluru, 18th Aug: Karnataka Home Minister G Parameshwara has briefed the state assembly on the ongoing investigation into the alleged mass burials at Dharmasthala, emphasizing that the case is still in its preliminary stages. He stated the government’s sole aim is to uncover the truth.
The investigation began following a complaint from a man who alleged he had been receiving continuous death threats and was forced to bury several victims of rape and murder. The complainant, who claimed he came forward due to guilt, has since been granted witness protection by a court-formed committee.
Parameshwara confirmed that exhumations have been conducted at locations indicated by the complainant. Skeletal remains were recovered at two of these sites and have been sent to forensic labs for testing. From other areas where nothing was found, soil samples were collected to test for accelerated decomposition due to high acidity. A skull handed over by the complainant is also at the Forensic Science Laboratory.
The minister clarified that the Special Investigation Team (SIT) can only proceed with further investigations after the FSL reports are received. He rejected demands from BJP leaders to arrest the complainant, noting that his witness protection status makes an arrest impossible.
Parameshwara criticized the Opposition for politicizing the case. He stated that the BJP initially welcomed the SIT’s formation but is now raising a “hue and cry.” He concluded by reiterating the government’s commitment to a fair and impartial probe without intention to shield or malign anyone. “If nothing is found, Dharmasthala’s stature will only grow stronger,” he said. “If something emerges, justice will be delivered.”
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