Key Facts
Karnataka Home Minister Priyank Kharge announced on Friday that the Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing the Dharmasthala case will submit its response to the Karnataka High Court regarding new allegations of a conspiracy involving ₹200 crore. The case, which initially involved claims of multiple murders and burials, has taken a fresh turn with the key accused, CN Chinnaiah, filing a writ petition alleging he was used to discredit the temple town.
Details of the Case
Chinnaiah, whose earlier allegations led to the formation of the SIT, has now claimed that he was drawn into a larger effort to harm Dharmasthala's reputation. In his petition, he named activist Mahesh Shetty Timarodi, Girish Mattannavar, Vitthal Gowda, and Jayant, among others, accusing them of coordinating a campaign against the temple town. The petition also reportedly mentions actor Prakash Raj and includes allegations about a telephone conversation.
Justice Suraj Govindaraj of the Karnataka High Court has issued notices to the state government and the SIT, directing investigators to submit a status report by June 29.
Minister's Statement
Kharge declined to comment on the substance of the allegations, emphasizing that the probe is court-monitored. “It is a court monitored probe. The court has asked the SIT certain questions, and the SIT chief will reply to them. It cannot be discussed publicly. Once the reply is given to the court, it will be known,” he told reporters in Bengaluru.
Regarding the ₹200 crore figure mentioned in media reports, Kharge said, “There are media reports that a submission has been made in court. ₹200 crore is being alleged, which is not a small amount. How much of it is true is not known.” He added, “He is the same person who had claimed about multiple murders, rapes and burials. It needs to be verified whether he is telling the truth.”
On the mention of Prakash Raj, Kharge said, “Just because a name is mentioned, one cannot be considered a criminal. The court has sought a reply from the SIT chief. Let him reply. Before that, these matters cannot be discussed in the media.”
Reactions from Actor and BJP
Actor Prakash Raj responded on social media, saying, “It has come to my attention that some news and discussions about me are being circulated in the media and on social media regarding the Dharmasthala case. Since this is an extremely sensitive matter that has affected the faith of millions of devotees, it is my duty to respond to these doubts and questions.” He added, “I am currently away. In the next couple of days, I will personally return and address the media. Until then, please do not believe rumours or the exaggerated and fabricated stories that some malicious individuals are trying to attach to this news.”
The BJP has demanded greater transparency. Senior BJP leader Sunil Kumar called for the release of the SIT's findings, while state BJP president BY Vijayendra alleged a conspiracy to damage Dharmasthala's reputation. “It is now being revealed that hundreds of crores are involved in this. Who was behind this? Who invested? Why did the then CM turn a blind eye and give it to the SIT? The people of the country and Hindus want the truth to come out in all this,” Vijayendra said.
What Readers Should Know
- The SIT was formed after Chinnaiah's initial allegations of multiple murders, rapes, and burials over two decades in Dharmasthala.
- Investigators previously excavated sites near the Netravathi River and recovered skeletal remains.
- The High Court has sought a status report by June 29.
- The case involves claims of a conspiracy with funds of ₹200 crore to discredit Dharmasthala.
FAQ
What is the Dharmasthala case about?
The case involves allegations of multiple murders, rapes, and burials in Dharmasthala, Karnataka. The SIT was formed to investigate, and new claims of a conspiracy involving ₹200 crore have emerged.
Who is CN Chinnaiah?
CN Chinnaiah is the key accused who initially made allegations of murders and burials. He later filed a writ petition claiming he was part of a conspiracy to malign Dharmasthala.
What did the Karnataka Home Minister say?
Priyank Kharge stated that the SIT will reply to the court's queries and that the matter cannot be discussed publicly as it is court-monitored.
What is the role of actor Prakash Raj?
Prakash Raj's name was mentioned in the petition. He has denied involvement and said he will address the media soon.
Source: www.hindustantimes.com