Mass Burial Alleged in Karnataka’s Dharmasthala: Former Worker Claims Coerced Body Disposal, FIR Filed, Centre Urges Swift Action

A former sanitation worker in Karnataka's Dharmasthala has filed a complaint alleging that he was coerced into secretly disposing of multiple dead bodies over several years. The allegations suggest a possible mass burial and cover-up of murders in the religious town, with reports of human skulls found at burial sites including near Shanthivana and Bahubali hill. Despite the filing of a First Information Report (FIR) six days ago, there has been no progress in the investigation, prompting criticism of the Karnataka police for failing to secure the area and protect the whistleblower. The state's Home Minister, G. Parameshwara, has stated that if the complainant's statements are true, the law will take its course. The central government has taken note of the case and urged the Karnataka government to act swiftly. Local officials, including the Belthangady Tehsildar, have admitted to being orally informed about the allegations but did not take timely action. Victims' families are demanding justice, and experts have called for higher-level expertise, suo motu police and court actions, and legal protection for the whistleblower. The case has drawn widespread attention due to the sacred status of Dharmasthala and the disturbing nature of the claims.