Dharmasthala Case: SIT Searches Four Sites, Finds No Leads

Swift Summary

• The special Investigation Team (SIT) dug four unmarked spots in Boliyar village near Dharmasthala, based on the complainant’s voluntary court statement, but no skeletal remains were found.
• The complainant reportedly alleged burying the body of a minor girl between 12-15 years old,who was raped and murdered.He identified approximate locations but could not pinpoint the exact burial site due to the passage of time.
• On-site sources confirmed that while no remains were discovered, an inconsistency arose in the complainant’s statements-he claimed an autopsy had been conducted and authorities present during burial, despite not previously mentioning this detail.
• SIT officials plan to continue excavation in surrounding areas on Saturday as part of their efforts to identify a victim if skeletal remains are located.
• SIT has officially been declared as a police station via an August 6 order; officers above inspector rank now have powers as Station House officers. This allows them to register cases, arrest suspects, and file charge sheets.

Indian Opinion Analysis

The ongoing investigation highlights both procedural diligence by law enforcement and challenges linked to witness reliability over extended periods. While digging operations reflect thorough attempts by SIT officials at uncovering evidence critical for identifying victims or corroborating accusations, inconsistencies in witness testimony complicate efforts substantially.

Formalizing SIT into a police station is likely to strengthen its operational capacity by granting necessary legal powers for case registration and arrests-a step welcomed given its investigative mandate since formation under Director-General Pronab Mohanty on July 19. However, success hinges upon securing definitive physical evidence or credible leads. Progress in such cases may be slow but underscores India’s commitment toward justice delivery even when tackling long-standing mysteries connected with serious crimes.

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