Dharmasthala Mass Burial Case: Karnataka Govt Open to SIT Probe, Final Call After Police Report

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has indicated that the state government is not against handing over the Dharmasthala mass burial case to a Special Investigation Team (SIT), but any such move will depend on the outcome of the ongoing police inquiry. The case, which has triggered concern and speculation across the region, involves the burial of multiple unidentified bodies near a religious site.

Authorities are under increasing pressure to provide clarity as public curiosity and demands for transparency grow.

What the Case Is About

The controversy began when reports emerged of a mass burial in Dharmasthala, a well-known pilgrimage centre in Dakshina Kannada. Visuals of numerous freshly dug graves went viral, prompting questions about whether proper procedures were followed in disposing of the bodies.

The burials reportedly involved unidentified individuals, leading to suspicion and calls for further investigation into who these people were, and how and why they died.

Government’s Initial Stand

Chief Minister Siddaramaiah addressed the matter while speaking to reporters, stating that the government will consider an SIT probe if the current police investigation suggests any lapses or foul play. For now, the administration is awaiting a detailed report from local law enforcement authorities.

The statement was seen as a response to public pressure from citizens and activists demanding an independent probe to rule out any mishandling.

Opposition and Public Reaction

Several opposition leaders and civil society groups have raised concerns over the opacity surrounding the case. While police have maintained that all procedures were followed, critics argue that the absence of transparent records, especially in a sensitive area like Dharmasthala, demands deeper scrutiny.

For many in the region, the case has touched a nerve, blending religious sensitivities with law-and-order concerns.

Next Steps in the Investigation

The local police are currently verifying hospital records, post-mortem documentation, and cremation permissions to confirm whether all legal formalities were observed. If the report raises any doubts or inconsistencies, the government is expected to announce an SIT with clear mandates.

Officials also mentioned the possibility of forensic involvement to help clarify the cause of death in some cases.

Conclusion

The Dharmasthala mass burial case has exposed gaps in how unidentified bodies are handled and the need for greater transparency in such sensitive matters. As the state awaits the police report, the government’s decision will be closely watched—not just for justice in this case, but for setting a precedent in how such cases are treated going forward.