Dharmasthala mass burial case: Karnataka Home minister warns of legal action if witness allegations prove false

Karnataka Home Minister G. Parameshwara told the Legislative Assembly on Thursday that legal action would be taken against the key witness in the Dharmasthala "mass burial" case if his allegations are proven false. He reaffirmed the government's commitment to a fair, apolitical investigation led by a Special Investigation Team (SIT).

Bengaluru: Home Minister G. Parameshwara on Thursday told the Legislative Assembly that if the allegations made by a key witness in the Dharmasthala “mass burial” case are found to be false, legal action will be initiated against him under the law.

Reiterating the government’s commitment to a fair and impartial probe, Parameshwara said the Special Investigation Team (SIT) is working strictly within the legal framework to uncover the truth. “No political or religious considerations should influence the process. The investigation must bring out the facts,” he asserted.

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During the discussion in the Assembly, BJP legislators accused the government of allowing a campaign to malign Dharmasthala and its temple. They demanded that the state obtain an interim report and take action against the complainant and those allegedly backing him.

“My only request is that this matter should not be given a political or religious colour. The SIT was not formed under any pressure, nor will we yield to any in the future. Our only objective is to reveal the truth and ensure justice,” Parameshwara clarified.

He also stressed his personal respect and devotion towards Dharmasthala, stating that he, along with members of the ruling party, has visited the temple multiple times.

Responding to questions about the progress of the SIT investigation, the Home Minister said police are discharging their duties in pursuit of justice. “The police are not acting on everything the complainant says. There are limits. The truth will emerge at the right time, and no one can derail the investigation,” he stated.

The Dharmasthala case has attracted intense political debate in Karnataka, with the government facing pressure from both the opposition and community leaders to ensure transparency and protect religious institutions from unfounded allegations.