Dharmasthala: Forest Minister Vows Action in Chilling Burial Probe

In a shocking revelation, Karnataka Forest Minister Eshwar Khandre announced potential disciplinary actions against department officials if ongoing investigations confirm illegal burials in Dharmasthala forests. The Special Investigation Team (SIT) is deeply involved in probing accusations of heinous crimes spanning two decades, including mass murder and rape.

The allegations surfaced after a former sanitation worker, whose identity remains confidential, disclosed distressing details. Employed in Dharmasthala from 1995 to 2014, he claimed he was coerced into burying multiple bodies, some showing indications of sexual assault. His testimony has been recorded before a magistrate, raising serious implications.

The investigation has led the SIT to meticulously examine sites along the Netravathi River, where grisly discoveries include a human skull and skeletal remains. Minister Khandre emphasized that any forest official found negligent will face discipline in accordance with the law, as the investigation delves into jurisdiction and accountability.

(With inputs from agencies.)