Mangaluru: BJP Dakshina Kannada District President Satish Kumpala has demanded that the case related to a controversial AI-generated video on the Dharmasthala constituency be handed over to the National Investigation Agency (NIA). He alleged that the video was part of a conspiracy to malign the constituency’s image at the international level and suspected an international money trail behind its creation and circulation.
BJP calls for high-level investigation
Speaking at a press conference held at the BJP district office on Tuesday, Satish Kumpala said,
“We have no objection to any investigation, including by the SIT, into the allegations of atrocities, including the Saujanya rape and murder case. But the Dharmasthala video is different – it was produced with the intention of tarnishing the constituency and Hindu religion globally. Hence, an NIA probe is necessary to trace the funding and conspiracy behind it.”
He further alleged that Sameer M.D., who reportedly made the video using artificial intelligence, received significant financial support to spread it worldwide.
Call for arrest and deeper probe
Kumpala questioned why such allegations were made against Dharmasthala and said,
“Even though the accusations were made by a person of another religion, Hinduism has shown tolerance. But what would have happened if the situation was reversed? Authorities must take strict action and arrest Sameer M.D.”
He also raised concerns about the involvement of another individual named Simon, hinting at a larger propaganda network.
BJP plans mass visit to Dharmasthala
To express solidarity with the religious faith associated with Dharmasthala, BJP has announced a large-scale visit to the constituency on September 1. The programme is expected to draw between 50,000 and 1 lakh party workers from across Karnataka.
“This visit will show our support for the sanctity and heritage of Dharmasthala,” Kumpala said.
Political implications
The controversy surrounding the video has already stirred significant political debate, with calls for transparency in investigations and accountability for those involved in creating and circulating such content. The demand for an NIA probe adds a new dimension to the case, signalling that the matter may escalate to the central level.
Conclusion
With the BJP stepping up pressure and announcing a massive mobilisation of party workers, the Dharmasthala issue is poised to become a major political flashpoint in the region ahead of upcoming local elections.