Leak of witness statement in Dharmasthala case sparks outrage; Advocates seek urgent intervention

Bengaluru

In a serious development that could have far-reaching implications for the ongoing investigation into the Dharmasthala mass burial case, advocates Dheeraj SJ and Ananya Gowda have submitted a formal complaint alleging a leak of confidential witness statements. 

The complaint, addressed to top state and judicial authorities including the Director General and Inspector General of Police, the Chief Minister, the Home Minister, and the Chief Justices of both the Karnataka High Court and the Supreme Court, demands an immediate probe and intervention.

According to the complaint, their client, referred to as Mr. ‘V’, who is a key complainant-witness in the case, recently discovered a YouTube video containing specific and confidential details that were shared exclusively with the police during a formal statement recorded on July 14, 2025. The video, which is accessible publicly, reportedly features an individual with no direct connection to the case. Alarmingly, this person claims that the sensitive information was passed on to him by police personnel involved in the investigation.

“This has come as a profound shock to our client, who is now gripped with fear over the apparent breach of confidentiality,” the advocates stated. They argue that the disclosure not only endangers the witness but also casts a shadow over the credibility and impartiality of the entire investigative process.

The complaint raises grave concerns about the possible role of the investigating officer or other personnel within the police department in leaking the statement. “This fundamentally undermines the trust necessary for a fair and secure investigation,” the advocates warned, emphasising the need for immediate action to protect their client and preserve the sanctity of the legal process.

They have called for a thorough and impartial inquiry into the leak, urging high-level accountability and intervention to ensure witness safety and procedural integrity.

The case in question has already drawn significant public attention, and this latest allegation threatens to derail ongoing efforts to uncover the truth. As of now, no official response has been issued by the police or the state government.

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