Mob Attack in Dharmasthala Amid Ongoing SIT Probe
Tensions flared in Dharmasthala, Karnataka, on Wednesday during the ongoing Special Investigation Team (SIT) probe into the alleged mass burial case linked to the 2012 Sowjanya rape and murder. A violent altercation broke out between two groups, resulting in the assault of four YouTubers and damage to their camera equipment.
The victims — Ajay Anchan, Abhishek, Vijay, and a cameraman — were interviewing Rajat, a former contestant of Bigg Boss Kannada, when a group of nearly 50-60 people allegedly attacked them near Pangal Cross. The incident occurred close to the residence of Sowjanya, whose case has recently resurfaced amid claims of a wider cover-up involving multiple victims.
The four injured YouTubers were admitted to Benaka Hospital in Ujire. According to police reports, one of them is critically injured. The police have confirmed that the situation is under control and that further investigation is underway.
Public Outcry and Police Action
Following the attack, a crowd of local residents and supporters of the YouTubers gathered in front of the Dharmasthala Police Station and Benaka Hospital, demanding justice. The police had to carry out a mild lathi charge to disperse the protestors and restore order.
Dakshina Kannada Superintendent of Police, Arun K, confirmed that both sides have filed written complaints. FIRs have been registered for assault, property damage, and unlawful assembly. Additionally, a reporter from a Kannada news channel was also reportedly attacked during the incident.
Police have stated that they are reviewing video footage from the scene and will take further action based on the evidence collected.
Condemnation and Political Reactions
Actor and activist Prakash Raj took to social media to condemn the attack. He criticized the incident as a deliberate attempt to silence those advocating for justice in the Sowjanya case. “Voices asking for justice should not be suppressed,” he stated, while demanding accountability from the authorities for the rising hostility around the investigation.
Karnataka Home Minister G Parameshwara acknowledged the clash but downplayed the severity. “Two groups clashed, but the situation is now under control. Both sides have filed complaints. There’s nothing to worry about,” he said.
The government has yet to release a detailed update on the progress of the SIT probe into the Dharmasthala mass burial case, though public pressure continues to mount.
Sowjanya Case and the Renewed Attention
The 2012 rape and murder of 17-year-old Sowjanya had initially led to widespread outrage in Karnataka. However, with recent allegations suggesting a broader conspiracy involving the mass burial of other victims, public interest has been reignited.
Many activists and civil society groups are now demanding a transparent and independent investigation into the case, urging authorities not to allow political or religious influence to affect the probe.
The involvement of local influencers, such as YouTubers and regional media channels, has further intensified public scrutiny. However, the recent assault raises concerns about the safety of those reporting from the ground.
What Lies Ahead
As the SIT continues its investigation, many questions remain unanswered — including the identity of the assailants, the motive behind the attack, and the broader implications of the mass burial claims.
Local law enforcement has promised impartial action based on the complaints received and the video evidence being examined. Meanwhile, human rights activists are closely monitoring the developments, warning against any attempts to derail the investigation.
With public sentiment growing stronger and voices like Prakash Raj amplifying the demand for justice, the Dharmasthala mass burial case is poised to become a major flashpoint in Karnataka’s political and social discourse.