Skeletal remains to be exhumed as complainant leads SIT to alleged burial sites in Dharmasthala; high security deployed, key testimonies recorded
Mangaluru: The Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing the shocking mass cremation case in village, under the jurisdiction of Belthangady taluk in Dakshina Kannada district, has entered a crucial phase. On Monday, the SIT began on-ground inspections of the alleged burial sites, accompanied by officials from multiple departments and in the presence of witnesses and the main complainant.
SIT Inspects Burial Grounds Under Tight Security
The burial sites, allegedly used for the illegal disposal of bodies of rape and murder victims, are located in Dharmasthala village. Security was intensified as SIT officials conducted Sthal Mahajars (spot inspections) in these sensitive areas.
“We have started the field work today and will conduct Sthal Mahajaras at all the burial sites mentioned by them,”
said an official from the investigation team to News Flash.
The complainant, a former civic worker, appeared at the SIT office in Belthangady at around 11:30 am, accompanied by his legal counsel. He was questioned for over an hour by investigating officer Jitendra Kumar Dayama, following which he was taken to the Netravati bathhouse, a site reportedly linked to the case. Officials from the Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL), Revenue Department, Forest Department, and Land Records Department were also present during the inspection.
Exhumation Preparations Underway
According to sources, the alleged burial sites identified by the complainant will be marked and secured. Access to these areas will be strictly restricted to prevent tampering with evidence before any exhumation of skeletal remains takes place.
“The identified sites will be sealed. No one will be allowed entry until the forensic procedures are completed.”
said a senior official overseeing the site inspection.
Complainant’s Detailed Testimony Recorded
On Saturday and Sunday, the complainant recorded his detailed statement before DIG MN Anucheth and Jitendra Kumar Dayama. The hearings were also attended by SIT Chief Pranab Mohanty on Sunday. The complainant has alleged that he was threatened and forced to bury bodies of victims, who he claimed were raped and murdered in and around Dharmasthala village limits.
Skeleton Remains Already Submitted
In a dramatic development earlier, the complainant had produced skeletal remains, claiming to have retrieved them himself from the alleged burial sites. These remains were seized by police in the presence of his lawyer and five independent witnesses.
“The bones were handed over as per legal procedure. These may hold the key to cracking the case,”
said a source close to the SIT.
Timeline of the Case
-
July 4: Case registered at Dharmasthala Police Station following the complainant’s initial report to the Dakshina Kannada SP.
-
July 11: Complainant recorded his preliminary statement at Belthangady Court.
-
July 19: SIT constituted under senior officers.
-
July 25: Case officially handed over to SIT by local police.
SIT Faces Mounting Pressure for Justice
The incident has sparked widespread concern and raised serious questions about unreported crimes and illegal disposal of human remains. The SIT is under immense pressure to ensure transparency and deliver justice in a case that could have deep systemic implications.
As the investigation moves forward, further exhumations, forensic examinations, and cross-verification of testimonies are expected in the coming days.
No comments:
Post a Comment