Bengaluru/Dakshina Kannada: Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister Dr G Parameshwara on Tuesday assured the public that the state government was handling the alleged Dharamasthala mass burial case in Dakshina Kannada with utmost seriousness and sensitivity.
He confirmed that a Special Investigation Team (SIT) has been granted full freedom to conduct a professional and transparent inquiry into the disturbing revelations.
“We are dealing with this case with the gravity it deserves. I have already said this is a matter of deep concern. The SIT is investigating it thoroughly, and since the probe is underway, it is not appropriate for anyone, us included, to make public statements at this stage,” Parameshwara told reporters in Bengaluru.
His statement comes amid largescale forensic excavation activity that began at 13 sites identified by an anonymous whistleblower. These sites, all located in Dakshina Kannada district, are now at the centre of a high-priority investigation into allegations of sexual assault, murder, and illegal disposal of bodies.
#WATCH | Dakshin Kannada, Karnataka | Workers and Revenue Department officials reach the spot to begin digging where bodies were allegedly discovered in Dharmasthala. pic.twitter.com/e47y294A7z
Each of the 13 locations, reportedly pointed out by the whistleblower on a single day, is now under tight police protection. Security has been deployed since yesterday night to prevent any potential tampering or destruction of evidence.
Retired senior police officer Basavaraj Malagatti, who has long experience in handling sensitive investigations and is closely following the case, said, “These are highly sensitive sites. Police have been stationed to protect them from outside interference. Even small objects like a ring, chain, or clip, if found, can remain preserved underground for years and help identify victims.”
Forensic teams, accompanied by government doctors (including a woman medical officer), the sub-divisional magistrate, SIT officers, and forensic lab experts, began excavating the sites in a methodical and scientific manner. All materials recovered — whether skeletal remains, personal ornaments, or contaminated soil — are being carefully documented and preserved.
VIDEO | Dharmasthala Mass Burial Case: Labourers arrive to begin excavation of graves in Dakshina Kannada, Karnataka. pic.twitter.com/TXDaOsvigx
“If DNA tests are inconclusive, we are prepared to use older techniques such as skull superimposition,” Malagatti explained. “That method can help reconstruct a victim’s facial features and aid in public identification efforts.”
The whistleblower, whose disclosures triggered the probe, has claimed that several victims bore signs of sexual violence before being killed. Investigators are now carefully analyzing injury patterns, trauma indicators, and environmental clues from the burial sites.
“Soil from the abdominal area or nearby cavities may contain critical evidence. There may also be buried weapons. Everything is being treated as evidence,” Malagatti said.
Asked whether the whistleblower or their lawyer could be present at the excavation sites, officials were firm. “Only authorized personnel — SIT officials, forensic teams, doctors, the SDM, and panchas — are permitted on-site. No outsiders or legal representatives will be allowed, as this is a protected scientific investigation,” he emphasised.
Malagatti also acknowledged public skepticism stemming from past investigation failures. He referenced a previous case where a man was wrongfully jailed for six years and later released with judicial acknowledgment of a miscarriage of justice. “We recognise that. But the SIT now involved was handpicked by the DGP. These are honest, efficient, and unbiased officers,” he assured.
Parameshwara’s call for restraint was echoed by officials on the ground. “Identification is key. If we can identify even one victim, everything else follows. Families might recall if a missing woman had reported abuse or threats. Those details can provide vital leads,” Malagatti said.
If DNA or direct identification fails, officials may release reconstructed images to the public to seek information. Preserved belongings like watches, chains, and rings may also help trace the victims through relatives.
“This is not just a routine investigation—it is a mission to uncover buried truths and deliver justice to the silenced. And we are committed to doing that, scientifically and lawfully,” said Malagatti.
