Dharmasthala Case: SIT Conducts Fresh Mahazar With Sowjanya’s Uncle Vittal Gowda

Mangaluru: The Special Investigation Team (SIT) on Wednesday summoned Vittal Gowda of Pangala, uncle of Sowjanya, and took him to the forest area near the Nethravathi bathing ghat to conduct a fresh mahazar related to the skull recovery in the case.

According to SIT sources, Gowda had earlier shown the spot in the forest where a complainant witness found a human skull and later handed it over to police. After recording his statement in the morning, Gowda was escorted to the site by the team led by SP C.A. Simon. The mahazar lasted about an hour.

Skull recovery spot revisited

The SIT had already conducted a mahazar at the same site on September 6, when some human remains were found on the surface. However, as it was late evening then, officials were unable to carry out a detailed examination. Wednesday’s exercise was meant to gather further information.

Notably, the SIT team was not accompanied by the Assistant Commissioner, Tahsildar, or FSL team during this round of the spot visit.

Exchange of words with locals

Tension briefly flared when locals engaged in an argument with YouTuber Ajay (‘Kudla Rampage’) while the mahazar was in progress. The Dharmasthala PSI intervened and dispersed the crowd.

YouTubers, activists questioned

In parallel developments, the SIT also questioned several YouTubers and activists, including Munaf, Abhishek, Jayant T, and Girish Mattannavar.

• Speaking to the media, Jayant T said: “The SIT questioned me on several issues. I handed over three of my mobile phones. I am confident the truth will come out.”

Ongoing SIT probe

The Dharmasthala case has seen multiple strands of investigation, including petitions on the 2012 double murder, alleged mass burials, and claims of digital propaganda against Shri Kshetra Dharmasthala. Wednesday’s developments reflect the SIT’s continued focus on forensic leads and witness testimonies.