Dharmasthala, Karnataka, August 12, 2025 — The Special Investigation Team (SIT) tasked with probing the alleged mass burial case in Dharmasthala has escalated its efforts, uncovering significant findings while facing mounting public and political scrutiny. The investigation, triggered by a whistleblower’s claims of illegal burials linked to murders and sexual assaults, has gripped the region, raising questions about accountability and transparency.
New Excavations Yield Mixed Results
On August 10, 2025, the SIT conducted a fresh excavation at Bahubali Hills, digging a 20x20-foot trench to a depth of 10 feet, but found no human remains. This followed similar unsuccessful digs at four sites on August 8. However, a significant breakthrough occurred on August 5 at a newly identified site (Spot 14), where over 114 bone fragments and a skull were recovered. Preliminary forensic analysis at KMC Hospital in Udupi suggests the remains are male and show signs of strangulation, with further tests underway to confirm identity and cause of death. Earlier excavations at Sites 6 and 11 also uncovered skeletal remains, now under DNA analysis at the Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL).
The SIT has so far excavated 10 of the 13 sites flagged by the whistleblower, a former sanitation worker who alleged he was coerced into burying bodies of women and minors, some showing signs of assault, between 1998 and 2014. The team is employing ground-penetrating radar to enhance accuracy and has expanded its personnel to 29 officers to expedite the probe.
New Allegations Surface
The investigation has drawn fresh complaints, including one from social activist T. Jayanth, who alleged an illegal burial of a minor girl in 2002–2003 without legal procedures. The SIT directed him to file a formal complaint at the Dharmasthala police station. Additionally, the sister of a pre-university student who died 38 years ago has requested a reinvestigation and exhumation of remains, adding to the case’s complexity.
Legal and Political Tensions
On August 11, 2025, the Karnataka High Court disposed of a petition by Spunklane Media Pvt. Ltd. after a trial court rejected the Dharmasthala Temple administration’s plea to extend a media gag order. The Supreme Court is slated to hear a related plea against the High Court’s decision on August 15. Karnataka Home Minister G. Parameshwara stated that the government awaits the SIT’s final report before deciding further actions.
Political reactions have intensified, with BJP MLA SR Vishwanath announcing a “Dharmasthala Chalo” rally on August 16 to support the temple, alleging a “malicious campaign” against it. Former deputy CM KS Eshwarappa demanded the whistleblower’s arrest, calling the allegations a conspiracy to defame the Hindu community. Meanwhile, activists and families, including Sujatha Bhat, mother of missing student Ananya Bhat, continue to demand a Supreme Court- or High Court-monitored probe.
Ongoing Investigation
The SIT is reviewing records of unidentified bodies and unnatural deaths since 1995, despite challenges with tampered or missing archives. A public helpline (0824–2005301, WhatsApp: 8277986369, email: sitdps@ksp.gov.in) has been established, though no specific complaints have been received through it. Concerns about police collusion have also surfaced, with the whistleblower’s legal team alleging leaks of confidential information by local police.
As the SIT continues its work, the Dharmasthala case remains a flashpoint, balancing forensic investigation with public outcry and political pressure. The final report is expected to shed light on the truth behind these disturbing allegations.
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