Dharmasthala Burial Scandal: Complainant and Key Witness Give Sworn Statements in Court

The alleged illegal burial scandal in Dharmasthala has taken a pivotal turn as the Belthangady court recently saw the appearance of the complainant, Dinesh Prasad, and key witness, Shivaprasad. Both were produced before the court to formally record their statements under oath, a crucial step in unraveling the mystery surrounding unauthorized burials on government land near the sacred Netravati river.

Dinesh Prasad, a former member of the Dharmasthala Gram Panchayat, is at the forefront of this legal battle.

He has consistently raised concerns over what he alleges are multiple instances of illegal burials, bypassing standard regulations and proper procedures. His persistent efforts have brought this complex case back into the judicial spotlight after initial attempts by authorities to close it.

The case gained significant momentum following allegations that between 2008 and 2020, a staggering 16 bodies were interred on government-owned land without due permission or adherence to the necessary legal and environmental protocols.

This has sparked outrage and raised serious questions about oversight and land management in the region, particularly given the proximity to such a revered site.

Initially, law enforcement had filed a ‘B’ report, indicating that there was insufficient evidence to proceed with the case. However, the Belthangady court, demonstrating its commitment to justice, rejected this report and ordered a comprehensive re-investigation.

This judicial intervention underscored the gravity of the allegations and paved the way for a more thorough examination of the claims made by Prasad.

Shivaprasad, a former journalist, has been a significant witness in this case, providing support to Prasad's claims. His testimony, along with Prasad's, is expected to provide critical insights and bolster the prosecution's efforts to establish the facts surrounding these alleged illegal activities.

The recording of their sworn statements is a vital procedure, ensuring that their accounts are officially documented and considered in the ongoing inquiry.

The legal framework for this case includes charges filed under Section 297 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), which deals with trespassing on burial places, among other offenses.

Additionally, relevant sections of the Karnataka Panchayat Raj Act have been invoked, highlighting potential violations of local governance regulations concerning land use and public health. These legal provisions aim to address both the desecration of a potential burial site and the disregard for local administrative laws.

The judicial inquiry is currently in full swing, with police actively presenting witnesses to the court.

The unfolding proceedings are being closely watched by residents and activists alike, who are keen to see accountability and transparency in the handling of public land and the respect for community regulations. This development marks a significant step towards uncovering the full truth behind the Dharmasthala burial controversy and ensuring that justice is served for all parties involved.