In a shocking development, police in Dharmasthala, India, have arrested a former temple cleaner who made explosive allegations regarding several rapes and secret burials in the region. His claims, stating that he was coerced into burying hundreds of bodies of women who were allegedly raped and murdered, have sent shockwaves through the small but significant spiritual town in Karnataka.
The temple, dedicated to Manjunatha Swamy, a revered figure in Hinduism, draws thousands of pilgrims each day. Following the claims, the government launched a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to investigate the serious charges made by the accused. The man, whose identity is protected, filed a police report earlier this month, and his arrest comes as a serious twist in this unfolding story.
During his claims, he alleged that he worked in the temple from 1995 to 2014, stating he had buried numerous victims, including minors. He initially appeared in public cloaked in black to maintain anonymity. While he provided a human skull as evidence, authorities have stated that its legitimacy is questionable. An SIT representative confirmed that they had unearthed human remains at two excavation sites, which are currently undergoing forensic testing.
The chief administrator of the temple, Veerendra Heggade, has voiced his support for the investigation while firmly rejecting the allegations as "impossible." As the claims gained media traction, they sparked heated political debates, with accusations flying from various factions regarding the motives behind the allegations.
Home Minister G Parameshwara emphasized the necessity for clarity, advocating for a transparent investigation—whether it reinforces the temple's reputation or uncovers disturbing truths. The ongoing investigation has kept the spotlight on Dharmasthala as the quest for truth unfolds amid rising tensions.
