Dharmasthala, 5 August

The Special Investigation Team (SIT) investigating alleged mass burials in Dharmasthala has been handed a new case concerning the mortal remains of a girl, police sources said on Tuesday. A second complainant alleged that police failed to register a case and that the girl’s remains were buried without following proper legal procedures.

Following the submission of this report, the case has been brought under the jurisdiction of the SIT, which will oversee all further inquiries. The team has already begun investigations, examining locations mentioned by complainants.

The second complainant, Jayant T, claimed he witnessed an illegal burial of a girl. He initially approached the SIT office in Belthangady to share information before being advised to lodge a formal complaint at Dharmasthala Police Station.

The first complainant, a former sanitation worker whose identity remains undisclosed, stated he was employed in Dharmasthala between 1995 and 2014 and alleged he was forced to bury bodies—including women and minors—some showing signs of sexual assault. He has recorded a statement before a magistrate.

The investigation now covers multiple allegations of procedural lapses and misconduct. The SIT is inspecting suspected gravesites, gathering physical and testimonial evidence, and conducting forensic examinations. The inquiry is expected to continue over the coming weeks.