Mangaluru: The temple town of Dharmasthala witnessed a massive show of solidarity on Wednesday and Thursday as political leaders, devotees, and supporters gathered to express their backing for Dharmadhikari D Veerendra Heggade, amidst allegations and controversies that have recently surrounded the temple.
Congress MLA leads delegation to Dharmasthala
A delegation led by Chamaraja MLA K Harish Gowda, accompanied by nearly 2,000 devotees and supporters, reached Dharmasthala on Wednesday evening in about 50 vehicles. The group was welcomed at the main entrance before proceeding for darshan of Lord Manjunatha and partaking of prasada at Annapoorna.
On Thursday morning, the delegation is scheduled to meet Dharmadhikari Veerendra Heggade directly. Speaking on the occasion, MLA Harish Gowda condemned what he described as “false propaganda” being spread about Dharmasthala.
“We strongly condemn the misinformation campaign and extend our full support in protecting the sanctity and harmony of this centre of interfaith unity,” he said, adding that several members of the Congress party had accompanied him on this show of solidarity.
Dharma Raksha Jatha from Shivamogga
Meanwhile, a parallel show of support for Dharmasthala took shape through a Dharma Raksha Jatha led by former deputy chief minister K S Eshwarappa. The procession, which began in Shivamogga, culminated at Dharmasthala on Tuesday evening, drawing more than 1,500 devotees in over 200 vehicles.
On arrival, Eshwarappa was felicitated by temple authorities. As part of symbolic rituals, holy water was brought from the Tunga river in Shivamogga, the Ganga in Kashi, and the Nethravati in Dharmasthala. This water was sprinkled on the temple premises and along the path to signify purification.
Eshwarappa calls for NIA probe
Speaking after the march, Eshwarappa said, “We have come here to purify Dharmasthala. If those behind the allegations had been arrested immediately, the issue would not have escalated this far. Now, the truth is coming out from their own mouths. The government made a mistake by letting them go free.”
He further alleged that foreign funding and “anti-national forces” were involved in the conspiracy, and urged that the case be handed over to the National Investigation Agency (NIA).
Questioning the credibility of the allegations, Eshwarappa remarked, “Is it even possible to dig an 18-foot pit and bury bodies? Hindu dharma must survive, and we are ready to sacrifice our lives for its protection.”
Allegations of outside involvement
Eshwarappa also levelled charges against individuals allegedly linked to the case, claiming they had the support of organisations such as the SDPI. “From where is the money coming to pay the lawyers? Invisible foreign hands are at work in this matter,” he alleged.
Conclusion
With leaders from across the political spectrum and thousands of devotees making their way to Dharmasthala, the developments underline the high emotions and religious sensitivities surrounding the issue. While investigations are ongoing, both the Congress and BJP factions have now expressed strong support for Dharmadhikari Veerendra Heggade, marking a rare moment of convergence in safeguarding the temple’s sanctity.