Exclusive photograph shows skeletons at a hillock opposite to Bangle Gudde

Warning: This story contains a photograph that some readers may find disturbing

Belthangady

Blrpost.com’s independent investigation into the Dharmasthala mass burial case has uncovered a photograph showing two skeletal remains at a hillock located opposite to Bangle Gudde, near the Netravati bathing point. This photograph was sourced independently and the website has not resorted to any illegal or unethical practices.

The findings indicate that skeletal remains are not confined to Bangle Gudde but are also present at other locations, specifically Kolthyaru Gudde and Maderi Gudde. Multiple remains are allegedly present in these hillocks. While some argue that Bangle Gudde is a suicide point, questions now arise as to whether these other hillocks could also be potential suicide spots. However, SIT sources categorically told this website that no evidence has so far been found to establish Bangle Gudde as a suicide point.

The photograph shows two skeletal remains — one large and one small. The editorial team does not have the expertise to determine the age or sex of the skeletons. The remains appear to be clothed, though the garments are torn. One cloth seems to be a trouser. Prima facie, the image suggests the bodies were discarded rather than buried. Questions remain as to who dumped the bodies in the dense forest.

The SIT, which is probing the mass burial case, has already recovered several skulls (some media reports suggest seven) from Bangle Gudde. Deccan Herald reported that the skulls belonged to men. However, a senior forensic expert at the Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) in Madiwala, Bengaluru, clarified that the sex of the skulls can only be confirmed after detailed examination. The SIT has also recovered the identity card of a deceased senior citizen named Ayyappa from the site. A senior SIT source said similar ID cards have been found at other search locations. The discovery of skulls — male or female — underscores the need for a serious investigation, the source added.

Meanwhile, the SIT has gathered additional information about burials in the village from Dharmasthala Panchayat Vice-President Srinivas Rao and former President Keshav Gowda. Investigators are also probing the possible black magic angle in the case.