FIRs Filed After Attacks on YouTubers in Dharmasthala Amid Mass Burial Probe Unrest

Following unrest in Dharmasthala linked to the SIT investigation into alleged mass burials, authorities have confirmed that the situation is now stable. Several FIRs have been filed. An official statement clarified that no serious injuries were reported. The incidents involved assaults on YouTubers and damage to their vehicles by individuals claiming allegiance to Dharmasthala.

Protests erupted at various locations, with some accusing YouTubers of spreading false information and tarnishing the area's image. Others rallied in support of digital media voices. Police used mild force to manage the crowds. Inspector General of Police (Western Range) Amit Singh and SP Arun K visited the sites to oversee the situation.

Police Action and FIRs

FIRs are being lodged at Dharmasthala police station for incidents including an assault on YouTubers and damage to two of their vehicles. These events occurred at three locations: Pangala, where police intervened with a lathi charge; Dharmasthala police station; and outside a private hospital in Ujire.

The violence began when YouTubers, such as Ajay Anchan from Kudla Rampage, Abhishek from United Media, and Vijay from Sanchari Studio, were reportedly attacked while interviewing Bigg Boss fame Rajat near Pangala Road. Rajat had just visited Sowjanya's family, whose mysterious 2013 death is central to the ongoing SIT probe into alleged mass burials.

Bengaluru-based activist and YouTuber Keerthi Kumar U previously met with SIT officials expressing concerns over alleged leaks in the investigation. He demanded action against those spreading unverified reports. Meanwhile, CPI(M), DYFI, and Digital Media for Democracy condemned the attacks on journalists.

CPI(M) Karnataka secretary K Prakash urged for the immediate arrest of those responsible for these assaults, emphasizing that press freedom must be safeguarded.