Mangaluru: The investigation into the sensitive Dharmasthala case has taken a political turn, with senior BJP leader and former minister Suresh Kumar raising concerns over the transparency of the Special Investigation Team (SIT). Kumar has accused Karnataka’s Home Minister Dr G Parameshwara of failing to ensure a fair and credible investigation.
BJP questions credibility of SIT communication
Addressing the media, Kumar alleged that an individual popularly known in media circles as “Burude Thandata” has been presenting himself as the official spokesperson of the SIT. According to him, this raised serious doubts about the integrity of the probe.
“Who authorised him to act as the mouthpiece of the SIT? Why is sensitive information about the investigation reaching the public through unofficial channels?” Kumar asked. He pointed out that interim reports and details of the probe were being circulated by this individual rather than by authorised police officers.
Allegations of political interference
Kumar further alleged that the SIT’s handling of the case bore signs of political interference. He said such interference not only compromised the credibility of the investigation but also undermined public trust in the justice system.
The BJP leader argued that the Home Minister, as the head of the state’s law and order machinery, had failed to maintain neutrality. He called upon the government to explain why unofficial intermediaries were relaying sensitive updates on a case of such importance.
Call for accountability from government
“The SIT’s credibility is at stake, and the people of Karnataka deserve clarity,” Kumar said. He added that accountability must be fixed, particularly when the investigation is being closely watched by the public in the coastal region.
The BJP has demanded that all official communication on the SIT probe should be routed exclusively through responsible police officers or authorised government officials.
Sensitive issue in coastal Karnataka
The Dharmasthala case has been a matter of intense public and political interest in the coastal belt. Given its sensitive nature, opposition parties have repeatedly pressed for the probe to be handled with the highest degree of professionalism and transparency.
With Kumar’s remarks, the demand for greater oversight and impartiality in the SIT’s functioning is expected to gain momentum. Political observers believe the issue may further heighten tensions between the ruling Congress government and the opposition BJP in the days ahead.