MANGALURU, 26 JULY 

A Special Investigation Team (SIT) has commenced its probe into allegations of mass burials in Dharmasthala, located in the Dakshina Kannada district of the State. The investigation began on Saturday, following the establishment of the SIT office at the Intelligence Bureau premises in Mallikatte.

Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of Police, MN Anucheth, is overseeing the investigation, having arrived in Mangaluru to convene a high-level meeting with over 20 assigned officers and personnel. Superintendent of Police Jitendra Dayama has been appointed as the lead investigator for the case.

Sources indicate that officers from Dakshina Kannada, Udupi, and Uttara Kannada districts, including inspectors and sub-inspectors from local police stations, have been deployed to the SIT. Initial tasks will include internal briefings and interviews with the anonymous complainant who raised the allegations concerning the burials. 

All necessary arrangements, such as video recording equipment for documentation, have been made. Given the sensitive nature of the claims, the State government formed the SIT earlier this month to determine the authenticity of the complaint, identify those involved, and assess any potential legal violations.