Dharmasthala Case: SIT Files Comprehensive Charge Sheet Against Six Accused Individuals

The Special Investigation Team has submitted a 3,900-page charge sheet in the Dharmasthala case, naming six individuals accused of serious crimes, including multiple murders and rapes. The investigation follows allegations of buried bodies linked to local temple administrators.

The Special Investigation Team (SIT) has filed a charge sheet in the case involving allegations of multiple murders and rapes in Dharmasthala. This was submitted to the Judicial First Class Magistrate Court at Beltangady, located in Dakshina Kannada district. The report, which spans approximately 3,900 pages, names six individuals as accused under Section 215 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), according to police sources.

A significant controversy arose when C N Chinnaiah, later arrested for perjury, claimed involvement in burying numerous bodies in Dharmasthala over two decades. These bodies reportedly showed signs of sexual assault. The allegations pointed towards the local temple's administrators, stirring public interest and concern.

Excavations and Discoveries

The SIT, established by the state government to investigate these charges, conducted excavations at several sites identified by Chinnaiah. These locations were in forested areas along the Netravathi River banks in Dharmasthala. Skeletal remains were discovered at two of these sites, adding weight to the ongoing investigation.

Recently, the SIT unearthed more skeletal remains during a search operation in the Banglegudde forest area near the Nethravathi bathing ghat. These findings are crucial as they may provide further evidence related to the alleged crimes.

Accused Individuals

The charge sheet lists Mahesh Shetty Timarodi, Girish Mattannavar, T Jayanth, and Vittal Gowda among the accused. These activists had previously supported filing the FIR in this case. Additionally, Sujatha Bhat and another individual, reportedly complainant Chinnaiah, are also named as accused.

The SIT's comprehensive investigation continues to unfold as they piece together evidence from various sources. The case has drawn significant attention due to its serious nature and the implications for those involved.

As the legal proceedings advance, authorities remain focused on uncovering the truth behind these allegations. The findings from ongoing investigations will play a critical role in determining the outcome of this high-profile case.

With inputs from PTI