Belthangadi: The sensational Dharmasthala burial case took a dramatic turn early Tuesday when the Special Investigation Team (SIT) raided the residence of activist Mahesh Shetty Timarodi in Ujire, Belthangadi taluk, Dakshina Kannada district.
The raid came after the SIT intensified its probe into the case, which involves allegations of multiple bodies being buried secretly and an expanding network of suspects.
Accused Chinnaiah under intensive interrogation
The SIT, which had earlier taken into custody Chinnaiah, a masked man linked to the case, has reportedly obtained crucial information from him. Initially presented as a witness, Chinnaiah allegedly confessed during interrogation that he had been involved in activities contradicting his earlier statements in court.
On Saturday, Chinnaiah made a confusing statement in court, claiming, “I did not dig it up and bring it,” which triggered further investigation. The SIT subjected him to intensive questioning, leading to revelations about his links beyond Karnataka, including Delhi, Mandya, and Tamil Nadu.
Mahesh Shetty Timarodi under scrutiny
Mahesh Shetty Timarodi, who had been arrested earlier and was later released on bail, now faces renewed scrutiny after Chinnaiah reportedly claimed that Timarodi had given him shelter. Acting on this lead, SIT officers raided Timarodi’s home while he was asleep, collecting potential evidence to establish his involvement.
Officials stated that the raid was part of a broader investigation to uncover how the burial operation was planned and who all were involved in aiding Chinnaiah.
Expanding investigation across states
Sources within the SIT revealed that Chinnaiah’s interrogation has opened new investigative paths, including interstate links. The possibility of a larger network orchestrating these activities is being explored, with investigators piecing together travel records, financial transactions, and possible political connections.
The Delhi connection, unearthed earlier, is now being linked to findings from Mandya and Tamil Nadu. These revelations have widened the scope of the investigation, indicating that the case is more complex than previously believed.
Growing public concern
The case has triggered anxiety among residents of Dharmasthala and surrounding regions, with many expressing shock over the alleged concealment of evidence and the involvement of prominent figures. Social activists have demanded a transparent probe and swift judicial proceedings to bring all accused to justice.
Conclusion
With the SIT tightening its investigation, both Chinnaiah and Mahesh Shetty Timarodi are expected to face further questioning. Investigators believe the case may soon expose a wider conspiracy and lead to more arrests in the coming days.