Dharmasthala Deaths: Lawyers Urge CM Siddaramaiah to Form SIT for Unbiased Probe

A team of senior advocates, led by C S Dwarkanath and S Balan, met with Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Wednesday, urging the formation of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe the alleged mass rapes and murders in Dharmasthala, Dakshina Kannada.

The delegation submitted a formal memorandum to the CM, co-signed by advocates Umapathi S, Sudha Katwa, and T Naramisha Murthy. In their representation, they pointed out that a crucial eyewitness had reportedly recorded a confessional statement before a judicial magistrate, and that an FIR had already been filed in connection with the case.

However, the advocates voiced serious concerns that the current police investigation is not adhering to the procedures outlined under the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS). They alleged that the case may involve individuals wielding considerable political power, raising fears of bias and cover-ups.

To ensure transparency and justice, the delegation made five concrete recommendations, foremost being the immediate constitution of an SIT. They also called for:

• Deployment of advanced forensic assistance,

The advocates emphasized that only a neutral and high-level probe can deliver justice in such a grave and sensitive case, which has triggered public outrage and demands for accountability.