SIT Uncovers Human Bones at Mangaluru Burial Site Amid Mass Grave Probe

Mangaluru: The investigation into the alleged mass graves near the Dharmasthala temple town took a dramatic turn on Thursday as the Special Investigation Team (SIT) recovered human bones from one of the suspected burial sites in Karnataka’s Mangaluru district.

The remains—two bones—were found during the excavation of the sixth site, located in a forested stretch. This is the first confirmed recovery of human remains since the investigation began and is expected to be a crucial lead in unraveling the alleged burial of multiple victims.

Sources within the SIT confirmed that following the discovery, the focus of the entire team has shifted to a more intensive excavation at the site. Senior officials including SIT chief DGP P. Mohanty and DIG M.N. Anuchet rushed to the location to oversee the operation, which is being conducted under the supervision of local authorities, forensic experts, and the Tehsildar.

The bones will be sent to the Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) for further analysis and DNA testing. The site is one of 13 marked for excavation, with work currently underway at the sixth, seventh, and eighth locations, despite intermittent rain. Civic workers, forest officials, and the complainant remain present at the scene.

The whistleblower in the case had earlier claimed that he buried eight bodies at the sixth site—allegedly victims of rape and murder. He recently submitted a human skull to the SIT, which he claimed to have retrieved from one of the burial pits.

While no official confirmation has yet been issued regarding the identity of the bones found, the development has renewed public and media attention on the case. Earlier reports had suggested the recovery of a red blouse and a PAN card belonging to a woman named Lakshmi from the first site.

On July 11, the whistleblower appeared before a local court and gave a harrowing statement, alleging that several women and girls were sexually assaulted, murdered, and buried in Dharmasthala village. He insisted that the victims showed clear signs of violence and requested the exhumation be conducted in his presence.

The disturbing allegations have sent shockwaves across Karnataka, prompting activists and a retired Supreme Court judge to demand a court-monitored SIT probe. They expressed concern over the gravity of the charges and the need for transparency in handling the case.

In light of the recent developments, Karnataka DGP and IGP M.A. Saleem has deployed nine additional police personnel to assist the SIT, in addition to the 20 officers already assigned to the investigation.

As the excavation continues and forensic analysis progresses, the case is now entering a critical phase — with mounting pressure on authorities to deliver answers and justice in what is emerging as one of the most chilling cases in the state’s recent history.