Bengaluru, August 23, 2025 – Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, speaking to the media near his Sadashivanagar residence on Saturday morning, addressed the arrest of the anonymous complainant in the Dharmasthala case by the Special Investigation Team (SIT). Emphasizing impartiality, he stated, “We are neither on their side nor this side; we stand for justice. We only ask that politics not be played in matters of religion.”

Responding to questions about his earlier mention of a “conspiracy” in the case, where the complainant alleged multiple murders and burials in Dharmasthala, Shivakumar remarked, “The BJP was silent until now, speaking vaguely. It was only after I raised the conspiracy angle that they started commenting.” He noted that the Dharmasthala family had met Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, praising the formation of the SIT, led by senior officer Pranav Mohanty, on July 20, 2025. “The investigation is ongoing. Whether it’s the guilty or the innocent, our government will take action,” he added, citing assurances from the CM and Home Minister Dr. G. Parameshwara in the Assembly and CLP meetings.

The SIT arrested the complainant, identified as Chinnayya, on August 23, 2025, after the Mangaluru competent authority revoked his protection under the Witness Protection Act on August 22, due to inconsistencies in his claims. The accused was presented in Beltangady court and remanded to judicial custody, with further interrogation expected.

On Sujatha Bhat’s statement denying Ananya Bhat as her daughter, Shivakumar said, “The Home Minister will handle it.” Regarding a meeting with Congress leader Randeep Surjewala, he explained it was to prepare for local body elections, stating, “The court has directed us to hold elections, so we’re assigning responsibilities.” He also confirmed his participation in the Congress Janadhikara Yatra in Bihar, noting, “The CM has been invited and will join on another day.”