Demand for probe into Shiroor seer's death increases

Demand for a high-level probe into the suspicious death of Lakshmivara Theertha Swami of Shiroor Mutt is increasing.

"The seer had expressed concern that there was a threat to his life. There should be a detailed probe. Facts should be obtained from doctors who treated him and the probe should be conducted scientifically," Ravi Kiran Murudeshwar, the advocate, who had filed caveat petition on behalf of the seer to get back the idol of the presiding deity of his Mutt, demanded.

Kemaru Mutt's Isha Vithala Dasa Swami said: "Doctors reports that there was poison in the seer's blood has created a furore among devotees. There should be a high-level enquiry. Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy and his father H D Deve Gowda respect Guru tradition. They should ensure justice to the seer."

The Shioor seer had said that he needed a gunman though he had not told about threats to his life, Kemaru Mutt's seer said.

Meanwhile, the seer's brother in his Purvashrama, Latavya Acharya has lodged a complaint with Hiriyadkar police seeking an investigation.

Pejawar seer to miss funeral

Pejawar mutt seer Sri Vishwesha Theertha Swamiji, the eldest seer of Ashta Mutts, said in Hubballi that he would not be attending the funeral (formation of Brindavan) of Shiroor mutt seer as he would be arriving in Udupi late night.

"It is not mandatory to participate in the funeral. However, I will see if I get an invitation," he said.