Bengaluru, June 17

Hindu organisations have intensified their campaign over the Dharmasthala controversy, claiming a conspiracy to defame the revered temple town and demanding a thorough investigation into the alleged role of actor Prakash Raj in the case.

The demand follows recent developments in the Karnataka High Court, where a writ petition filed by C.N. Chinnayya, an accused in the Dharmasthala case, alleged a larger conspiracy aimed at tarnishing the image of the shrine and its administration. The petition named several individuals, including Prakash Raj, and sought directions to the Special Investigation Team (SIT) to investigate the allegations. The High Court has sought a status report from the SIT.
According to reports, several Hindu organisations have claimed that the controversy surrounding the alleged mass burial case was part of an orchestrated attempt to target Dharmasthala, one of Karnataka's most prominent religious centres. They have called for a comprehensive probe into all individuals named in the petition and demanded accountability if any conspiracy is established.

Leaders associated with Hindu groups have alleged that repeated accusations against the temple and its administration have hurt the sentiments of devotees and damaged the reputation of the institution. Some organisations have also sought a wider investigation into the alleged funding and coordination behind campaigns targeting the shrine.

Prakash Raj, however, has rejected allegations linking him to any conspiracy and dismissed reports surrounding his alleged involvement. He has stated that he will respond to the issue publicly and urged people not to jump to conclusions.

The Dharmasthala controversy has remained politically sensitive since allegations of mass burials surfaced in 2025, leading to the formation of an SIT by the Karnataka government. The investigation and subsequent legal proceedings have triggered sharp political and social debates across the state.

The matter is expected to witness further developments as the Karnataka High Court continues to monitor the case and the SIT preparing its status report.

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