Dakshina Kannada MP Brijesh visits Dharmasthala temple amid SIT probe

Dharmasthala

Dakshina Kannada Member of Parliament Captain Brijesh Chowta paid a visit to the Manjunatha Swamy Temple in Dharmasthala on Saturday, accompanied by Belthangady MLA Harish Poonja and close associates.

The delegation participated in religious rituals and offered prayers at the centuries-old temple, a major centre of faith for devotees across Karnataka and beyond. Chowta posted on X, “had the privilege to have darshan of Lord Manjunatheshwara at the Hindu religious centre Dharmasthala along with Harish Poonja, MLA of Belthangady constituency, and friends.”

The visit assumes significance as it comes during an intense phase of investigation by the Special Investigation Team (SIT), which is presently carrying out exhumation operations in Dharmasthala. These operations are linked to the ongoing probe into the alleged mass burial case that has drawn nation-wde attention and debate.

While the MP’s visit was described as a purely religious and personal engagement, the timing has drawn public interest given the heightened activity in the area. Many say that the visit is to mark his support to the Dharmasthala Temple Administration which is currently the eye of the storm. 

The Sri Manjunatheshwara Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. As the SIT continues its work, the developments in Dharmasthala are being closely followed both by locals and observers across Karnataka. 

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