Advocates seek SIT probe by SC or HC judge into 'unnatural deaths', 'disappearances' in Dharmasthala
Bengaluru, Jul 16 (PTI): A group of advocates met Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Wednesday, urging him to constitute a Special Investigation Team (SIT) monitored by a sitting or retired judge of the Supreme Court or High Court to probe cases of disappearances, unnatural deaths, and sexual assaults in Dharmasthala over the past two decades.
Dharmasthala, in Dakshina Kannada district, is a major pilgrimage centre, with Lord Manjunatha as the presiding deity.
Citing recent media reports and a statement made in court by an individual who claimed that "hundreds of bodies" had been buried in the area, the advocates—including former chairman of the Karnataka State Commission for Backward Classes, C S Dwarakanath — alleged that although an FIR has been registered and an investigation is underway, these bodies reportedly remain unexhumed.
"Furthermore, it appears that the investigation is not progressing following the mandate of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS)," the representatives stated in a memorandum submitted to the Chief Minister today.
Given the gravity of the alleged crimes, the memorandum added that the "distressing information" suggested the involvement of "highly influential" and "powerful personalities" with significant political clout.
The advocates urged Siddaramaiah to constitute a SIT monitored by an Additional Director General of Police (ADGP)-level officer, along with a sitting or retired judge of the Supreme Court or Karnataka High Court. "This will ensure impartiality, thoroughness, and public confidence in the investigation," the memorandum said.
They also called for the involvement of a dedicated Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) team, including experts in DNA analysis, digital forensics, and other specialised units, which they said is crucial for gathering irrefutable scientific evidence.
The advocates further requested that the entire investigation be video recorded to ensure transparency and accountability at every stage.
"The crime scene must be thoroughly analysed to gather all possible evidence, and all individuals—regardless of their influence—who are found to be involved must be arrested immediately and subjected to custodial interrogation," the memorandum stated.
They urged the Chief Minister to take appropriate and decisive action in the interest of society and to ensure that justice is served.
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MEA reports more than 200 Indians enlisted in Russian military since 2022; 26 deaths confirmed
More than 200 Indian nationals have joined the Russian armed forces since 2022, with 26 are confirmed dead, MEA—The Ministry of External Affairs have informed the Upper house of the Parliament: Rajya Sabha.
In a written response, the Minister of State for External Affairs, Kirti Vardhan Singh, has stated that at least 202 Indians are reported to have joined the Russian army. Among these recruited personnels, 26 have lost their lives; while, seven individuals have been reported missing by Russian authorities. He added that the remains of two deceased Indian nationals were cremated in Russia.
Singh noted that the sustained diplomatic efforts by the Indian government have led to the early discharge of 119 individuals. He further added that the discussions are going smoothly with the Russians to secure the release of the remaining personnel, with efforts underway to facilitate the early discharge of 50 more Indian nationals.
According to the minister, the Union government is in contact with Russian authorities to ensure the safety, welfare, and prompt return of Indian citizens serving in the Russian army. The issue, he said, is being addressed at multiple levels, including interactions between senior leaders, ministers, and officials of both countries.
The said disclosure was made in response to queries raised by Saket Gokhale, the MP of Trinamool Congress, and Randeep Singh Surjewala, the MP of INC, regarding the number of Indians allegedly recruited into the military service in Russia; Along with the details of deaths and missing persons reported since 2022.
