BJP, VHP ask govt to take action against social media campaigns on Dharmasthala

"People sitting behind screens are trying to dictate how the investigation should proceed, making baseless statements that hurt the sanctity of this sacred place, and even jumping to conclusions. The state government must act swiftly to curb such behavior," BJP MLA Vedavyas Kamath said.

Mangaluru: BJP MLA Vedavyas Kamath has strongly objected to what he described as 'excessive and reckless behavior' on social media concerning the ongoing SIT investigation near the banks of the Netravati River in Dharmasthala.

"People sitting behind screens are trying to dictate how the investigation should proceed, making baseless statements that hurt the sanctity of this sacred place, and even jumping to conclusions. The state government must act swiftly to curb such behavior," he said.

Kamath emphasised that Dharmasthala is a model for the entire country through its contributions to temple renovations, lake rejuvenation, upgradation of Hindu crematorium upgrades, women empowerment,de addiction campaigns, and various other social initiatives.

" What would have happened if similar attacks were made on the belief of different faiths ?" he questioned.

Anti-Hindu forces have in the past targeted other Hindu religious sites like Ram Setu, Tirupati, Kashi, Sabarimala, Isha Foundation, and Ananthapadmanabha Temple. “Now their target is Dharmasthala,” he claimed.

VHP condemns

The Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) has raised concern over the alleged widespread of misinformation by vested interests and anti-Hindu forces with the intention of tarnishing the dignity and honour of sacred institution.

VHP leaders Prof MB Puranik and Deepak Raj Gopal said that they had been demanding a thorough and transparent investigation and strict punishment for the perpetrators involved in the brutal murder of Sowjanya in 2012, which occurred in the jurisdiction of Belthangady police station. Since then, VHP has extended its support to all unbiased protests in pursuit of justice.

Prof Puranik said "As the state government continues the SIT investigation, the VHP urges that utmost care be taken to ensure that the dignity of Dharmasthala and the faith and beliefs of Hindus are not hurt." VHP strongly insists that legal action be taken against those conspiring against Dharmasthala and attempting to create discord within Sanatana Dharma.

"There must be a comprehensive investigation into all the recent developments. The guilty must be severely punished, but under no circumstances should the honour and sanctity of a revered spiritual centre like Dharmasthala be compromised.

"The VHP is prepared to fight against all anti-Hindu and anti-national forces that are conspiring not just against Dharmasthala, but also against various other Hindu religious institutions across the state and the country,' the release added.