Karnataka BJP President B.Y. Vijayendra led a massive ‘Dharmasthala Chalo’ rally in the temple town of Dharmasthala, alleging a “very big conspiracy” behind claims of multiple rapes, murders, and burials linked to the revered Shri Kshetra Dharmasthala over the past two decades. Joined by Leader of Opposition R. Ashoka and other BJP legislators, Vijayendra demanded that the investigation be handed over to the National Investigation Agency (NIA) or Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), citing a lack of trust in the state’s Special Investigation Team (SIT).

The controversy erupted after C.N. Chinnaiah, a former temple sanitation worker arrested for perjury, alleged he buried numerous bodies, including those of women showing signs of sexual assault, in forested areas along the Netravathi River. The SIT excavated multiple sites, uncovering skeletal remains at two locations, but the BJP claims the probe has been marred by “false propaganda” at national and international levels, deeply hurting devotees’ sentiments. Vijayendra emphasized, “Irrespective of caste, creed, or religion, all devotees of Lord Manjunatha demand a thorough NIA or CBI probe.”

Before the rally, Vijayendra and BJP leaders visited the Manjunatha temple, offering prayers and meeting Dharmadhikari Veerendra Heggade, a BJP Rajya Sabha MP. Vijayendra pointed to statements from Dakshina Kannada Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao, who admitted to pressure from leftist groups to initiate the SIT probe, and Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, who acknowledged a “big conspiracy.” Vijayendra questioned Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s haste in forming the SIT without verifying the complainant’s credibility, alleging external forces, possibly foreign-funded, are targeting Hindu institutions.

Also Read: Shivakumar Accuses BJP of Exploiting Dharmasthala Case for Votes

The rally, expected to draw over a lakh devotees, was framed as a non-political movement to restore Dharmasthala’s sanctity. On August 31, the JD(S), led by Nikhil Kumaraswamy, held a similar ‘Dharmasthala Sathya Yatre,’ echoing the call for a central probe. Karnataka Home Minister G. Parameshwara defended the SIT, rejecting NIA involvement, while Siddaramaiah accused the BJP of politicizing the issue. The controversy continues to fuel tensions, with the BJP warning that such conspiracies could target other Hindu temples if not addressed.

Also Read: BJP’s Massive March to Defend Dharmasthala Temple