Belthangady: In a fresh development in the ongoing Dharmasthala case, Belthangady police on Thursday conducted a search at the Bengaluru apartment of Kannada YouTuber Sameer MD. The search was executed under a warrant issued by the Belthangady court on September 3 and was carried out by a team led by Circle Inspector Nagesh Kadri.
Search operation in Bengaluru
Police officials, accompanied by forensic science personnel, visited Sameer’s rented flat in Hullahalli near Bannerghatta. According to authorities, Sameer had prior intimation about the search, and the process was conducted in his presence.
During the operation, the police seized a computer and a mobile phone suspected to have been used for video production. Officials stated that these devices would be subjected to detailed forensic examination to determine if they contained material relevant to the case.
Case background
Sameer MD is a well-known Kannada YouTuber whose channel regularly features commentary on social and political issues. His outspoken style, often critical of local leaders and religious institutions, has won him a large following but also drawn frequent scrutiny from authorities.
The current case stems from one of Sameer’s videos, though police have not yet disclosed the specific nature of the allegations. The complaint against him was registered earlier at the Dharmasthala police station, prompting further investigation by Belthangady police.
Forensic examination to guide next steps
Officials clarified that the seized devices would be subjected to forensic analysis, with investigators examining whether the content included any material directly linked to the complaint. “The next course of action will depend on the outcome of the forensic report and subsequent court directions,” a senior police officer said.
The police emphasised that the search was conducted legally under court orders, in line with standard investigative procedures.
A YouTuber under scrutiny
Sameer MD’s growing popularity as a digital commentator has frequently placed him at the centre of public debate. While his supporters view him as a bold voice addressing sensitive issues, his critics argue that his content sometimes crosses boundaries and provokes social unrest.
The present search marks the latest in a series of instances where authorities have taken action against controversial online commentary in Karnataka.
Conclusion
The Belthangady police’s search of Sameer MD’s Bengaluru residence signals a widening probe into the Dharmasthala case. With forensic analysis of the seized equipment pending, the legal outcome will likely hinge on whether investigators find incriminating evidence linked to the allegations. Until then, Sameer remains under the watch of both his followers and law enforcement agencies, highlighting the delicate balance between free expression and accountability in the digital era.