Dharmasthala: SIT Chief to Be Replaced if Mohanty Joins Central Duty, Confirms CM

Swift Summary

• Chief Minister Siddaramaiah stated that senior IPS officer Pronab Mohanty, currently heading the SIT investigating alleged “mass burials” in Dharmasthala, might potentially be replaced if he moves to a Central government posting.
• Reports suggest Mr. Mohanty is among the empanelled Director General-rank officers for Union government service.
• The SIT was established by the Karnataka State government to investigate claims of mass murder, rape, and burials allegedly spanning two decades in Dharmasthala.
• Home Minister G. Parameshwara clarified that no decision to replace Mr. mohanty as SIT chief has yet been made.

Indian Opinion Analysis
The ongoing investigation into allegations of “mass burials” in Dharmasthala underscores its sensitive nature and complexity given the alleged crimes date back decades. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s comments on replacing Pronab Mohanty highlight procedural challenges tied to administrative postings within State and Central governments-potentially impacting continuity of leadership in such probes. Openness and consistency will likely remain critical for maintaining public trust during investigations into grave allegations like these, while state-Center coordination may require better alignment moving forward.

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