The man’s controversial claims rocked the religious community in Dharmasthala, Karnataka, prompting a Special Investigation Team to excavate various locations where he alleged bodies were buried. As the arrest unfolds, reactions from local authorities and the temple administration reveal deep political and social ramifications surrounding the case.
Arrest Follows Shocking Allegations of Rape and Secret Burials in Indian Temple Town
Arrest Follows Shocking Allegations of Rape and Secret Burials in Indian Temple Town
A former temple cleaner in Karnataka, who alleged involvement in cover-ups of female rapes and murders, has been arrested for perjury as investigations continue.
Police in India have apprehended a former temple cleaner who made sensational claims of being coerced into hiding the bodies of numerous women who were allegedly raped and murdered. The man’s accusations have upended the small religious town of Dharmasthala, located in the southern state of Karnataka and known for its centuries-old temple dedicated to Manjunatha Swamy, a revered figure in Hinduism.
The cleaner, whose identity remains confidential, had initially lodged a formal complaint in July, outlining his disturbing experiences while working at the temple from 1995 to 2014. He reported fifteen incidents where he claims to have buried the remains of young female victims, some of whom he stated were minors. Following these revelations, local authorities formed a Special Investigation Team (SIT) amid significant media scrutiny coupled with social concern.
On Saturday, an SIT official disclosed to the BBC that the man was arrested for perjury, as the investigation proceeded into the veracity of his claims. Earlier, he had appeared in court while dressed in a black hooded outfit and provided a human skull as alleged evidence from one of the graves. However, authorities dismissed this claim, stating that the remains did not originate from the locations he indicated.
The uproar surrounding his allegations compelled the government to take action after the state's women’s commission raised alarms. Excavations around Dharmasthala resulted in the discovery of human remains at two sites, which have been sent for forensic analysis to ascertain their origins.
Amidst growing tension, the temple’s chief administrator, Veerendra Heggade, who has a prominent political role as an MP, criticized the former cleaner's assertions, labeling them as impossible while expressing support for the ongoing investigation. Meanwhile, political discussions in the state assembly have intensified, with some opposition leaders claiming these allegations form part of a smear campaign targeting the temple, frequented by millions of devotees.
Karnataka's Home Minister G Parameshwara stated the government is committed to uncovering the truth surrounding these accusations, emphasizing that the investigation aims to seek justice regardless of the findings. As this case continues to unfold, it highlights the sensitive dynamics of power, belief, and truth within one of India's deeply spiritual communities.
