In a new twist to the alleged Dharmasthala mass burial case, the key complainant, Chinnaiah – widely known as the “masked man” – has admitted to having close links with activists and revealed details of a trip to Delhi prior to making sensational claims of rape and mass killings in the Karnataka temple town.
SIT Searches and Investigations
Following his disclosure, the Special Investigation Team (SIT) brought Chinnaiah to Bengaluru and conducted searches at the residence of activist T. Jayanth, a vocal critic of the temple management. After hours of investigation, officials took the complainant to the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) office.
The SIT has planned further searches, including visits to the homes of activist Girish Mattennanavar and other associates. Officials are also examining the first skull that Chinnaiah submitted as evidence, while awaiting DNA and soil analysis reports from forensic experts.
Activists Respond
Activist Jayanth admitted that he had given shelter to the masked man nearly a year and a half ago after the latter approached him carrying a skull. He confirmed traveling to Delhi with Chinnaiah, Girish Mattennanavar, and another complainant, Sujatha Bhat, where they met a religious seer and other individuals.
“If this is a crime, let the law take its course. I am ready to face consequences,” Jayanth said, while denying allegations from neighbors that he was involved in drug peddling. He dismissed the claims as false and motivated by personal vendetta.
Government’s Stand
Karnataka Home Minister G. Parameshwara said the SIT cannot be forced to submit its report within a strict timeframe. He noted that the investigation is complex and could take longer depending on the evidence gathered.
“If the SIT completes the probe early, the report will be filed. Otherwise, the investigation will continue until all facts are established,” he told reporters.
The Allegations
The case first came to light when the masked complainant claimed he was forced to bury the bodies of women and girls who had been raped and murdered in Dharmasthala. He alleged the victims bore clear signs of sexual assault, with bodies buried without clothing.
His shocking testimony led to excavations at 17 sites in Dharmasthala. He also handed over a skull, believed to be from one of the burial sites, to the SIT. Initially placed under the Witness Protection Act, his security cover has since been withdrawn.
The explosive allegations have triggered outrage across Karnataka, with activists and a retired Supreme Court judge demanding a court-monitored investigation to ensure transparency in the probe.
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