Dharmasthala Crimes: D K Shivakumar’s statement will have no impact on SIT probe

Bengaluru

“Deputy Chief Minister (Dy.CM) and Bengaluru Development Minister D. K. Shivakumar’s statement on the Dharmasthala mass burial case will have no impact on the ongoing investigation by the Special Investigation Team (SIT),” said a source in the Karnataka Home Ministry.

The Congress’s top leadership in this case is not siding with anyone but simply wants the truth to come out in the open. The witness-complainant, Bheema, has given a statement under Section 164 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC), and the SIT must submit its report to the court after diligently completing the probe. The national Congress leadership is focused solely on the investigation and is least concerned about Shivakumar’s remarks. Sources also cautioned that if the SIT finds supporting evidence to substantiate Bheema’s allegations, Shivakumar may face major embarrassment.

On Thursday (August 14, 2025), Shivakumar stated that a “highly organised conspiracy” had been orchestrated to tarnish the image of Dharmasthala’s administration and its hereditary head, Veerendra Heggade.

Sources in the Home Ministry said many had argued that the exhumation operation would stop after no skeletal remains were found at the 13th spot, but the probe continued. This, they said, indicates that the investigation is being conducted with utmost transparency. At this juncture, the SIT is withholding certain details that may come as a shock to many. Congress leaders feel no one should issue premature statements, as they may hamper the political aspirations of some senior state leaders.

Sources also pointed out that state BJP leaders do not understand the role of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) in Dharmasthala.

On Thursday, the SIT marked multiple spots for digging and is also considering taking help from others who have come forward as potential witnesses. The SIT remains unaffected by Shivakumar’s statement.

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