Dharmasthala: The issue of alleged illegal burials has been increasingly dominating discussions, with the Sowjanya case initially making headlines before a whistleblower’s complaint intensified the debate around the burial allegations, leading to both support and opposition. As a result, Dharmasthala has become a focal point of intense scrutiny at both state and national levels. In an interview with a national media outlet, Dharmadhikari Dr. Veerendra Heggade addressed the cases surrounding Dharmasthala and the current rumors.

Here is a detailed report of his responses: On allegations of a conspiracy from outside the Kshetra: Responding to questions about external conspiracies, he said, “The reason for this is ‘jealousy.’ They are doing this to tarnish the charitable and religious work being done here. Their intention is to sabotage it.”

On claims that the Heggade family has taken over all of Dharmasthala’s assets: He replied, “I don’t know what that issue is. If it weren’t ours, could we look after it with so much love? We care for every devotee with affection. They should have the darshan of the deity, and we must provide them with food and take care of everything.”

On the need for transparency about the Trust: He stated, “There are trusts for education, Shantivana, accounting—everything requires accountability, so we have trusts for each. Beyond that, there’s no other reason. Everything operates under the Kshetra’s authority. If there’s a surplus, it goes to the temple, and if there’s a shortfall, we cover it.”

On misinformation campaigns against the Manjunatha Temple: He remarked, “They are spreading misinformation about the Kshetra and Hinduism. The Kshetra’s reputation is growing, and its fame is increasing, which sparks jealousy. They are trying to harm Hinduism, unaware that this could cause trouble for the religion in the future and defame the Kshetra.”

On the politicization of Dharmasthala’s issues: He clarified, “No, it’s not like that. People from all parties and MLAs visit us. We don’t see it that way.”

On allegations of a conspiracy by the Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Minister: He said, “All parties support our good work. The government supports scholarships for students, and we are providing scholarships to ensure the survival of Kannada-medium education. The Chief Minister is helping and supporting to ensure Kannada schools and mediums thrive.”

On the ongoing SIT investigation: He responded, “That’s a good thing. The guilty should be punished. We have no objection to the investigation and punishment.”

On the whistleblower identifying 10 to 15 burial sites: He stated, “I will speak once the full report is out. Let the SIT investigation provide the details, and then I’ll comment.”

On the larger conspiracy being discussed on social media: He said, “If there’s no truth to it, it should be stopped. We should discuss positive things.”BULLMER Striped Textured Printed Polo Neck Fullsleeve T-Shirt with Rib for Men

On social media spreading misinformation about Dharmasthala: He noted, “They are defaming the Kshetra, but it hasn’t made any difference. Those orchestrating this had planned it earlier, so it’s a conspiracy.”ALSO READ:Asia Cup T20 2025: BCCI Announces India Squad, Key Players Dropped

On discussions about the SIT investigation at the Home Minister’s residence: He remarked, “We are at peace now. Let the guilty be punished. We have support not just from the entire state but beyond. People say they’ll come in 500 buses and 400 cars, but I’ve said no because it would cause difficulties here. The government must take action and punish the guilty to address all this.”

On certain forces orchestrating a conspiracy: He said, “We don’t know about that. We are seeking information from the SIT, and jealousy is the reason behind all this.”