SIT Raids Activist’s Home in Dharmasthala Case; Sujatha Bhat Questioned

A Special Investigation Team (SIT) has conducted a search at the home of activist Mahesh Shetty Thimarodi in connection with the Dharmasthala mass burial case. The search was led by officer Jitendra Kumar Dayama at the house where the main complainant in the case was staying. Authorities reportedly seized the complainant’s mobile phone and other belongings.

The search, which went on late into the night, was based on information provided by the complainant. Security was increased around Thimarodi’s house, and media were not allowed to enter. Thimarodi was not home when the SIT arrived, but his family members were questioned. The SIT also searched the home of his brother, Mohan.

In a related development, Sujatha Bhat appeared for questioning before the SIT. She is providing a statement about the disappearance of Ananya Bhat, who she says is her daughter. Sujatha, accompanied by her lawyers, arrived at the SIT office in Belthangady on Tuesday morning and was questioned until 8:30 p.m. She has been asked to return for more questioning on Wednesday.

In a separate matter, Belthangady police have filed a case against activist Girish Mattannavar and the YouTube channel Kudla Rampage. The case was filed for allegedly hurting the religious feelings of Jains during an interview given by Mattannavar on the channel.

The complaint was first filed by Ajith Nagappa Basapur with the Hubballi Rural police and was later transferred to Belthangady. Another complaint was also filed by Manjunath Jakkannavar in Dharwad. Mattannavar and the YouTuber have been charged under sections 196(1)(A) and 299 of the BNS.
With input from TNIE

For more details: Navamalayalam.com