BJP Mobilizes One Lakh in Dharmasthala Rally for Central Probe

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) organized a significant rally in Dharmasthala, Karnataka, on Monday, demanding a Central agency investigation into serious allegations involving multiple murders and sexual assaults in the temple town. According to reports from PTI, approximately 100,000 people participated in the demonstration, which aimed to express solidarity against what the BJP characterized as an “attempt to vilify the temple and its traditions.”

The rally, named the ‘Dharmasthala Chalo’, featured prominent party leaders, including Union Minister Pralhad Joshi, former Chief Minister Sadananda Gowda, and Leader of Opposition R Ashoka. BJP state president B Y Vijayendra also played a key role in the event. While addressing the crowd, Vijayendra called on the central government to transfer the case to either the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) or the National Investigation Agency (NIA). He criticized the state government led by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah for failing to deliver justice to the Hindu community.

Vijayendra highlighted a long-standing case involving a young woman who went missing in 2003, reinforcing the party’s commitment to seeking justice for her family. The BJP’s rally was not only a show of strength but also a response to what its leaders described as a ‘smear campaign’ against one of Karnataka’s most revered religious sites.

Investigations Underway Amid Controversy

In light of the serious nature of the allegations, the Congress-led state government has established a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to examine the claims. The BJP, however, argues that only a Central agency can ensure a thorough and transparent probe. Reports indicate that the SIT has conducted searches at various locations along the Netravathi River in Dharmasthala, following the surrender of one of the accused after years of evasion.

The allegations surfaced after a complainant, identified as CN Chinnaiah, claimed that numerous bodies, including those of women showing signs of sexual assault, had been buried at the temple site over the past two decades. Chinnaiah has since been arrested on charges of perjury.

Earlier in the day, Vijayendra and Ashoka visited the Manjunatha Temple, where they offered prayers and met with the temple’s Dharmadhikari, Veerendra Heggade. This visit underscores the BJP’s connection to the temple and its efforts to rally the community around the issues surrounding the ongoing investigation.

As the situation continues to develop, the BJP remains steadfast in its demand for a swift and impartial investigation, stressing the need for justice for the affected families and the preservation of the temple’s reputation.