Mangaluru: Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Wednesday assured a visiting delegation of religious leaders that the Centre is closely monitoring the ongoing investigation into the Dharmasthala scandal, where the accused known as “Mask Man Chinnayya” allegedly confessed to burying hundreds of bodies. The assurance came during a meeting with the Heads of Panchamasali Peetha and Gurupura (Mangaluru taluk) Vajradehi Math, who had travelled to Delhi seeking a central agency probe into the matter.
Shah weighs NIA involvement
During the meeting, Shah expressed cautious optimism about the progress of the case. He told the Swamijis that he was personally reviewing developments and would convene a Cabinet meeting soon to decide on the next course of action. Whether the case will be handed over to the National Investigation Agency (NIA) is still under consideration.
Religious leaders had pressed for NIA involvement, citing the gravity of the allegations and the potential nationwide implications if the purported confessions are verified. Shah acknowledged their concerns, assuring that no aspect of the case would be overlooked.
Legislative proposal on defamation
Alongside the discussion on the scandal, Shah revealed that the government is preparing legislation aimed at curbing defamation and falsehoods directed at religious institutions. He appealed to the religious leaders to help dispel misinformation among their followers, highlighting how unverified narratives can cause social unrest and damage faith in established traditions.
This proposed law is expected to create stricter penalties for individuals or groups spreading malicious or false content targeting religious organisations. Shah emphasised the need for a collective effort to counter what he described as “deliberate attempts to distort facts for vested interests.”
Enforcement Directorate steps in
Meanwhile, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) has initiated a preliminary investigation into allegations that certain YouTubers received foreign funding to spread distorted narratives about religious institutions, including those linked to the Dharmasthala case.
Several individuals have already been interrogated by the Special Investigation Team (SIT) in connection with these allegations. Officials confirmed that the probe is examining both financial irregularities and the role of online influencers in shaping public opinion through misleading claims.
The Hans India recently reported that the police searched the Bengaluru flat of YouTuber Sameer, who is alleged to have been part of this wider network spreading controversial content. Investigators are scrutinising digital evidence, including devices seized during the search, for possible links to foreign sources of funding.
Custody of accused Chinnayya extended
At the centre of the scandal is the accused, Chinnayya, popularly referred to as “Mask Man” due to his concealment of identity. He remains in SIT custody after the court granted an extension of three more days for interrogation. His next appearance has been scheduled for September 6.
Police sources have indicated that Chinnayya’s alleged confessions are being carefully examined for corroborative evidence. Until conclusive proof is established, officials are cautious in confirming or dismissing the sensational claims of mass burials.
Religious awareness campaign planned
In response to the uproar triggered by viral videos and social media debates, a “religious awareness meeting” has been organised in Dharmasthala. The event aims to counter misinformation circulating online and to restore faith among devotees shaken by the controversy.
Leaders of multiple religious institutions are expected to participate in the meeting, urging people not to fall prey to unverified claims. Authorities have also advised the public to wait for official updates rather than relying on rumours circulating on digital platforms.
Conclusion
The Dharmasthala scandal has gripped both Karnataka and the national spotlight, with its mix of sensational allegations, online misinformation, and calls for central intervention. While Amit Shah’s assurance signals seriousness at the highest level, the decision to transfer the case to the NIA still hangs in the balance.
With the ED probing financial trails, the SIT continuing its interrogation of the accused, and a broader legislative proposal in the works, the coming weeks are expected to determine both the legal and social trajectory of this sensitive case. For now, religious leaders and authorities are united in their call for calm and cooperation as investigations proceed.