Karnataka Home Minister: Govt Tracking Dharmasthala Case on Social Media, Action If Needed

Swift Summary

• Karnataka Home Minister G. Parameshwara stated that the government is monitoring social media for posts related to alleged mass burials in Dharmasthala and will take action against content that may instigate societal unrest.
• A Special Examination Team (SIT) has been formed to investigate claims of mass murders, rape, and burials in Dharmasthala from 1995-2014, made by a former sanitation worker who alleges he was forced to bury bodies showing signs of sexual assault.
• Pronab Mohanty, SIT Chief and Internal Security Division head, met Mr. Parameshwara amid rumors about his potential transfer to a Union Government post as part of an empanelment list for Director General-rank officers.
• Mr. Parameshwara clarified the meeting was unrelated to the investigation but focused on othre matters like fake news regulations and online gambling rules.
• The Minister confirmed no formal communication about relieving Mr. Mohanty from his State duties for a Central position had yet been received.

Indian Opinion Analysis

The alleged mass burial claims in Dharmasthala present serious human rights concerns requiring rigorously impartial investigation by the SIT. The government’s proactive stance on monitoring social media highlights its sensitivity toward potential communal fallout while balancing free speech complexities-an approach seen previously with cases in Dakshina Kannada.

Mr. Pronab Mohanty’s possible transition to Union service appears procedurally routine but raises questions regarding institutional continuity during pivotal investigations like this one. Ensuring uninterrupted focus on vital probes is essential; any leadership change must prioritize investigative integrity above administrative reshuffles.

Read More: The Hindu