The Karnataka government has decided to hand over the investigation into the Dharmasthala burial allegations to a Special Investigation Team (SIT). The Dakshina Kannada SP, Dr. Arun K, confirmed that the matter would soon be transferred to the SIT. According to a government order issued on July 19, the SIT will be led by DGP Pranab Mohanty from the Internal Security Department. The team will also include IPS officers M. N. Anuchet, Soumya Latha, and Jitendra Kumar Dayama.
Home Department Under Secretary S. Ambika stated that the government has decided to form the SIT to conduct a detailed investigation of case number 39/2025, registered at the Dharmasthala police station under section 211 (A), BNS.
The Karnataka State Women’s Commission, in a letter dated July 14, brought attention to a person who claimed in court to have buried hundreds of bodies in the Dharmasthala area. The Commission is taking seriously the statement made by the family of a medical student and reports of human skulls being found in the area.
The person’s statements involve serious crimes such as murder, rape, the disappearance of women and girl students, and unnatural deaths. Due to these allegations, the Commission recommended the formation of an SIT to ensure a fair and comprehensive investigation under the leadership of senior officials.
The government has determined that forming an SIT is appropriate to thoroughly investigate the issues raised by the Women’s Commission and the case registered at the Dharmasthala police station. Related criminal cases, whether already registered or likely to be registered in other police stations across the state, will also be transferred to the SIT.
The SIT will utilize the resources available at the Dakshina Kannada District Police Office. It will provide real-time updates on the investigation’s progress to the DG and IGP. Upon completion of the investigation, the team will submit a detailed report to the government, via the DG and IGP.