Karnataka Home Minister G Parameshwara on Monday dismissed reports suggesting that Indian Police Service (IPS) officers had requested to step down from the Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing the Dharmasthala mass burial allegations.
“None of the officers assigned to the investigation have expressed unwillingness to serve on the SIT. They are all capable individuals in important roles,” said Parameshwara, speaking to the press in Bengaluru.
The state government constituted the SIT on Saturday, appointing Pronab Mohanty, Director General of Police (Internal Security Division), as the head.
He will be supported by MN Anucheth (DIG, Recruitment), and IPS officers Soumyalatha SK and Jitendra Kumar Dayama, as per the official notification.
Rumours Refuted
Despite reports that two officers wished to be relieved for “personal reasons,” the Home Minister clarified that no such formal requests had been made.
“I met Mohanty today, but it was a courtesy call. He thanked the government for entrusting him with the responsibility and assured that he would carry out the task sincerely,” Parameshwara added.
Call for Patience
The formation of the SIT has been welcomed by various civil society groups, who have also appealed for a speedy and transparent investigation.
The state government continues to face public scrutiny over the issue, but officials urge citizens to avoid jumping to conclusions until the probe yields factual clarity.