Dharmasthala: A violent confrontation between two groups near Pangal Cross, close to the site of the 2012 Soujanya rape and murder case, has triggered serious concerns at the highest levels of Karnataka’s political leadership. The unrest unfolded as the Special Investigation Team (SIT) continues its probe into shocking allegations of mass burials and sexual assaults dating back over two decades.
During Wednesday evening’s incident, four individuals—including a cameraperson and three YouTubers—were attacked by a mob while interviewing a local resident. The situation quickly escalated into stone-pelting, prompting the police to intervene with a mild lathi charge to control the crowd. Later that night, one group staged a protest outside the Dharmasthala police station, demanding protection for the town’s reputation.
Due to the heightened tension, the SIT suspended its excavation and search operations on Thursday. Officials have stated that activities will resume once adequate security is in place.
Political Leadership Responds
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah assured that legal action will be taken against those responsible for the violence, regardless of political or social affiliation.
Home Minister G. Parameshwara acknowledged the sensitive nature of the situation. He confirmed that multiple complaints and counter-complaints had been filed and that a detailed report has been ordered. He emphasized that the SIT is conducting a scientific, evidence-based probe in line with judicial directives.
The SIT, formed in response to public and judicial pressure, has so far conducted exhumations at 13 sites, based on a sworn statement by a former sanitation worker, who claimed to have buried multiple bodies between 1995 and 2014. Skeletal remains of a male were found at the sixth site, while only scattered remnants were recovered elsewhere. All remains have been sent to the Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) for analysis.
Media Gag Controversy Reaches Supreme Court
Meanwhile, the controversy has also reached the Supreme Court, which is set to hear a plea challenging the Karnataka High Court’s August 1 decision to lift a media gag order on the case. A lawyer argued before the court that around 8,000 YouTube channels were circulating defamatory content targeting the Dharmasthala temple, urging urgent intervention.
Despite the storm of misinformation and politicization, Home Minister Parameshwara reaffirmed that the SIT will proceed professionally and undistracted by external commentary.