Dharmasthala: Guarded BJP asks Congress for fair probe

File photo of Leader of Opposition R Ashoka

Credit: DH Photo

Bengaluru: The opposition BJP on Monday treaded cautiously on the Congress government’s decision to constitute a special investigation team (SIT) to look into allegations of mass burials at the temple town of Dharmasthala.

While the BJP welcomed the SIT, it expressed concerns over whether or not the probe would be impartial. 

“The probe should not aim to falsely implicate anyone,” Leader of the Opposition R Ashoka said. 

“Dharmasthala, along with Tirupati, is a sacred center of faith for millions of Hindus in South India. If an individual has done something wrong, accusations should be directed at that person, not against an entire religious institution. No one should target the temple,” Ashoka said. 

Ashoka noted that the SIT was formed after an unidentified person claimed to have buried hundreds of bodies near Dharmasthala. “If bodies were indeed found, their families would file complaints and the government should clarify how many such cases exist,” he said. “How can someone suddenly make such claims after 20 years? Misinformation is repeatedly being spread about a religious centre,” he said. 

Former chief minister Basavaraj Bommai echoed similar views, stating that the probe must be legal, timely and unbiased. “Dharmasthala is an ancient institution built on faith and tradition. Any action that damages public trust must be avoided,” the Haveri MP said. 

Former deputy chief minister Dr CN Ashwath Narayan accused the Congress government of trying to divert attention. He alleged that attempts were being made to create suspicion around Hindu institutions.