Dharmasthala Case Develops as SIT Prepares Court Response, Minister Says

Karnataka Home Minister Priyank Kharge said on Friday that the Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing allegations linked to the Dharmasthala case will submit its response before the Karnataka High Court, as the matter continues to unfold under judicial scrutiny amid fresh claims of conspiracy and financial misconduct raised in a recent petition. The minister stated that the investigation is being conducted as a court-monitored probe, and therefore all key findings and clarifications must be placed directly before the judiciary.

He added that the SIT chief will respond to specific queries raised by the High Court, and that the government will not engage in public debate on the subject while proceedings remain active. Kharge’s remarks came after a writ petition was filed before the Karnataka High Court by CN Chinnaiah, the key accused in the case, who has introduced new allegations suggesting that the original complaint may have been part of a larger conspiracy. The petition also raises claims related to alleged misuse of funds and an organised effort to tarnish the reputation of Dharmasthala, a prominent religious town in Karnataka known for its temple institution and long-standing cultural significance.

According to the petition, Chinnaiah—whose earlier statements played a role in triggering the formation of the SIT—has now alleged that he was drawn into a wider attempt to malign the temple town and its associated institutions. He has sought directions from the court to ensure that the investigation is completed expeditiously and that action is taken against individuals allegedly involved in orchestrating the conspiracy. The allegations have added a new dimension to an already sensitive case that has been under investigation for several months. While details of the SIT’s findings have not been made public, the probe has been closely monitored by the judiciary due to the nature of the accusations and the institutional significance of Dharmasthala in Karnataka’s socio-religious landscape.

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Minister Kharge declined to comment on the merits of the allegations, stating that it would be inappropriate to discuss the matter publicly while it is under judicial consideration. He reiterated that the government’s position is limited to ensuring that the SIT completes its work and submits its report to the court without external interference or political interpretation. Officials indicated that the High Court has sought clarifications from the SIT on specific aspects of the investigation, which will be addressed in the upcoming submission. The court is expected to review both the SIT’s response and the contents of the writ petition before deciding on further directions.

The case continues to attract public attention in Karnataka due to its intersection of legal, political, and religious sensitivities. With competing claims now emerging from different sides, the High Court’s review of the SIT’s findings is expected to play a crucial role in determining the next course of action in the investigation. As proceedings move forward, authorities have maintained that all updates will be communicated through formal judicial channels, reinforcing that the matter remains sub judice and under strict legal oversight.

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