Dharamsthala Mass Burials: MP Demands NIA Probe
Shocking Confession Triggers National Outcry
A chilling letter written by Rajya Sabha MP Sandosh Kumar P to the Ministry of Home Affairs has revealed disturbing allegations linked to the Dharmasthala temple in Karnataka. According to the letter, a sanitation worker confessed to disposing of over 500 bodies—many of them women and minors allegedly sexually assaulted—over the past two decades.
The letter, now circulating widely online, has sparked demands for a high-level investigation. The Karnataka government has already formed a Special Investigation Team (SIT), but the MP is pressing for a transfer of the case to the National Investigation Agency (NIA).
Disturbing Details in the Letter
The sanitation worker, currently under protection, has reportedly expressed willingness to take investigators to the mass burial sites. According to the MP’s letter, the confession includes references to acid disfigurement, targeted killings, and coordinated cover-ups.
“His confession is detailed, specific, and supported by physical evidence,” Kumar wrote in the letter.
The letter alleges that skeletal remains buried between 1995 and 2014 have already been exhumed. This revelation has alarmed human rights groups, activists, and residents of the spiritual town.
Threats to Activists and RTI Petitioners
The mass burial allegations come in the wake of mounting pressure from activists, RTI petitioners, and affected families. Several have reportedly received threats or faced harassment for pursuing justice.
Kumar wrote that the “so-called ‘Acquittal Review Committee’ was never operationalised meaningfully,” raising concerns about the sincerity of earlier investigations.
“A sacred town revered by devotees across India cannot remain clouded by fear, suspicion, and buried truths,” the MP stated.
Demand for NIA Investigation
The MP has urged the Union Home Ministry to shift the investigation to the NIA, citing local police inaction and lack of transparency.
Kumar’s letter emphasized that while Dharmasthala’s spiritual sanctity should be respected, this should not be a shield for hiding serious crimes.
“We owe it to the victims, to the nation, and to Dharmasthala’s legacy to uncover the truth without fear or favour,” he stated.
The police have registered a case under Section 211(a) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and are working to verify the claims. Names and sketches of possible perpetrators are reportedly being compiled.
Sanitation Worker Cooperating with Police
According to initial investigations, the sanitation worker revisited the burial sites recently and helped locate skeletal remains. Police confirmed the individual is cooperating and will assist in identifying burial locations and suspects.
Officials have yet to confirm the authenticity of the entire confession, but they are taking the case seriously. The SIT has begun gathering physical evidence and statements.