No Human Remains Found Yet in Dharmasthala Dig; Documents May Offer New Leads

On the second day of exhumation in Dharmasthala, no human remains were found, though investigators recovered ID cards and documents. The SIT is acting on claims of mass burials made by a former sanitation worker. A key site is yet to be excavated as the probe continues under public and legal scrutiny.

On the second day of the high-profile exhumation operation in Dharmasthala, the Special Investigation Team (SIT) reported no discovery of human remains despite extensive digging at five marked forest sites near the Nethravathi bathing ghat. The operation, triggered by allegations from a former sanitation worker claiming mass burials of sexual assault victims over a decade ago, continues to generate national attention.

Wednesday’s search, which lasted from noon to 5.30pm, involved around 20 labourers and was overseen in the later hours by SIT chief Pronab Mohanty and DIG MN Anucheth. Despite intermittent rainfall hampering progress, the pits were dug as per the complainant's instructions. However, investigators ended the day without finding skeletal evidence.

The investigation has so far recovered several items including a PAN card, ATM cards, and an ID bag. SIT officials stated that verification of the recovered documents is ongoing. While no direct link has been established yet, advocates believe the items may provide crucial leads. N Manjunath, representing the family of missing medical student Ananya Bhat, described the SIT’s approach as serious and commendable, expressing hope that further digging would reveal the truth.

The case was initiated following a complaint lodged on July 4, with the SIT formed on July 19. The complainant had identified 13 sites for investigation, but according to Manjunath, the most critical site still remains untouched and is expected to be investigated in a later phase.

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Meanwhile, SIT head Mohanty’s name appearing on a central deputation shortlist has raised questions about leadership continuity. Home Minister G Parameshwara assured that a decision would be made depending on legal provisions, ensuring that the probe’s pace and integrity remain intact.