Activists Demand Unbiased SIT Probe into Alleged Crime Against Women in Dharmasthala

Mangaluru: ‘Who Killed the Women in Dharmasthala?’ The women’s organizations and rights activists campaign spearheading the project will hold a silent march and a Congress in Belthangady on December 16 and demand a comprehensive SIT investigation into the alleged sexual assaults, murders, unnatural deaths and missing women cases in Dharmasthala.

The campaign, launched by women’s groups in August, aims to ensure justice for the victims and provide support to the families who have been following these cases for years.

Speaking to reporters, activist Jyothi said the SIT investigation should focus on ensuring justice for women and other affected persons without being influenced by any pressure.

He emphasized that as per the government order establishing the SIT, the investigation should not be limited to allegations of mass burials but should include all past and ongoing criminal cases.

“There is an effort to influence the SIT investigation. Even though SIT heads Pronab Mohanty and Anucheth are good officers, there are some officials who try to intimidate those who approach them,” he alleged.

The silent march was planned for December 16, which has been celebrated as Anti-Rape Day since the 2012 Nirbhaya case. Organizers said the date was intended to remind society of the courage of women and the need for stronger measures against sexual violence.

Jyothi said the Belthangady incident was meant to “warn” the government and the SIT about the seriousness of the allegations and the need for clarity in the investigation.

“We are not pointing fingers at anyone. So why wasn’t anyone arrested? Why didn’t the system question the people named in the complaint?” he asked.