Whistleblower’s Shocking Claims Put Spotlight on Dharmasthala Mass Burial Sites

The alleged 'mass burial' case in Dharmasthala has captured nationwide attention after a former civic worker claimed he was forced to bury dozens of bodies near the Netravati River and adjoining forests. The Karnataka state government responded swiftly, forming a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to investigate the shocking claims.

SIT Formed Following Public Outcry

In response to widespread outrage, the state government constituted an SIT on July 19. The probe, headed by DGP Pranab Mohanty, officially began on July 27. As of August 2, the team has completed searches at eight of the 13 identified sites. At the sixth site, investigators found 15 bone fragments believed to belong to one individual, but no complete skeleton or skull has been recovered.

Allegations of Murder and Sexual Assault Emerge

The former civic worker, employed between 1995 and 2014, alleged that he buried bodies - primarily women and young girls - many showing signs of sexual assault and strangulation. These claims have revived long-standing allegations of murder and sexual violence in Dharmasthala, with some cases dating back to the 1980s. Activists have repeatedly accused local leaders and officials of covering up crimes, demanding accountability for decades.

What the Investigation Has Found So Far

The SIT's search operation is based on information provided by the whistleblower. Of the 13 burial sites identified, eight have been searched. So far, human remains have only been discovered at one location - the sixth site - and are now undergoing forensic and DNA analysis.

The discovery of bone fragments could be a critical breakthrough in unraveling the truth behind these allegations, potentially reshaping the narrative around a town long cloaked in mystery.

Decades-Old Mystery Under the Scanner

The revelations have sparked statewide outrage, with citizens demanding answers and justice. The pressure has pushed authorities to reinvestigate incidents spanning over 30 years in the Dharmasthala region. With the SIT continuing its probe, the next phase of the investigation could reveal more disturbing truths buried in silence for decades.