Dharmasthala 'mass burials': SIT exhumes four sites

Deccan Herald

4 days ago

Mangaluru: Special Investigation Team (SIT) resumed the exhumation process at four sites inside the forest near bathing ghat on the banks of Netravathy river identified by complainant-witness as part of a probe into the alleged mass burials in Dharmasthala on Wednesday."No human remains were found at the four sites despite digging up to a depth of six feet. But we found a PAN card with the name of a male and a Rupay debit card with a woman's name at the site close to the bathing ghat," sources in SIT informed. The complainant-witness in all had identified 12 sites inside the forest and another site close to the check dam across Netravathy river. On Wednesday SIT had completed digging at five sites identified inside the forest by complainant-witness who was present along with his advocates. "In all these four sites, we did not come across any evidence of bodies being buried," added sources in SIT.As the sites were located deep in the forest, SIT had to abandon earth mover. SIT accompanied by complainant-witness entered the forest around 11.15 am. SIT with the help of 20 labourers was forced to resort to manual digging at the sites using shovels, pickaxes among others. SIT head and Director General of Police (Internal Security Division) Pranav Mohanty, Additional Commissioner of Police (Recruitment) M N Anucheth and Superintendent of Police (Internal Security Division) Jitendra Kumar Dayama visited the forest to witness the progress of exhumation process. Puttur Assistant Commissioner Stella Varghese was also present.SIT opens office in MangaluruSpecial Investigation Team (SIT) set up to conduct in-depth investigation into the alleged mass burials in Dharmasthala opened its second office at Inspection Bungalow in Mallikatte. A press release stated that those keen on meeting SIT members can visit the SIT office between 10 am to 5 pm. Public keen on sharing information can contact SIT office (0824-2005301) or whatsapp number (8277986369) or via email ([e-mail]).