In a recent development in the ongoing investigation into alleged sexual assaults and murders in Dharmasthala, partial human skeletal remains were unearthed on Thursday at one of the burial sites identified by a key whistleblower. The discovery was made at the sixth site, three days after the Special Investigation Team (SIT) began the exhumation process in Karnataka’s Dakshina Kannada district.
The SIT, formed by the Karnataka government, is investigating explosive allegations made by a former sanitation worker of the Dharmasthala Manjunatha temple. The man claims a two-decade-long cover-up involving multiple murders and sexual assaults. According to his testimony, he was forced to bury several bodies -- primarily of girls, women and vagabonds -- many of which allegedly showed signs of sexual violence.
The whistleblower identified 15 alleged burial sites. The first eight are along the banks of the Nethravathi River, while sites 9 through 12 are located near the adjacent highway. The 13th site is on the road connecting Nethravathi to Aajukuri, and the final two (sites 14 and 15) lie in the Kanyadi area.
Initial excavation at the first five sites yielded no physical evidence. However, the sixth site has produced partial skeletal remains, which investigators believe may belong to a male, though confirmation awaits a detailed forensic examination. Forensic experts who arrived at the site have taken possession of the remains for lab testing. The analysis will focus on determining the age, gender, and possible cause of death.
Also Read: Investigation chief Mohanty may exit SIT in Dharmasthala probe
"The forensic doctor can find out if the deceased is a male or female. The bones will also help determine the possible age of the deceased," said an officer of the SIT.
He emphasised that in cases as sensitive and controversial as this, the inquest should be conducted in the presence of a magistrate.
“Wherever a body is found, an inquest is conducted by the investigating officer. But in certain cases, such as this one, it must be overseen by a magistrate,” he added.
While the discovery of skeletal remains may validate parts of the whistleblower’s claims, investigators are cautious. The identity of the deceased remains unknown. If no physical objects are found nearby to aid in identification, officers may have to rely on oral testimonies and past police records.
“This will be a long investigation since much of the evidence may have already vanished,” the officer acknowledged, adding, “But with sustained effort, I believe the police can crack this case."
The SIT continues to search the remaining sites, as public and political pressure mounts for a transparent and thorough investigation into what could be one of Karnataka’s most disturbing criminal cases in recent memory.
Also Read: Dharmasthala burial case: SIT begins process of exhuming bodies
Follow us
