Dharmasthala: Dr. D. Veerendra Heggade, Dharmadhikari of Dharmasthala, has responded to the allegations and controversies surrounding the temple town, stating that the truth is coming out following the formation of the Special Investigation Team (SIT). He expressed gratitude to the government, affirmed that their selfless service remains their strength, and asserted that the public's faith in Dharmasthala will continue.

Speaking about the developments related to the institution, Dr. Heggade said, "The truth is emerging because the SIT was formed. I thank the government for that." He spoke at the temple premises, expressing his views on the allegations and the ongoing case, stating that they have always stood by the truth and will continue to do so.

Dr. Heggade mentioned that he has been reading many books, including those by the late Siddaganga Seer, whose words, he said, resonate with him. He expressed deep confusion regarding the controversy: "We don't know why this enmity came. We don't know why there is so much hatred and so many false accusations." He stressed that their service is not for publicity and credited their selfless work for their well-being all these years.

He added, "You have all witnessed our work. We are just an instrument here; the related departments have carried it forward." He noted that while some people criticized them out of affection, the recent criticisms were different. "I cannot thank you enough. Dharmasthala and the people of Dharmasthala are not separate," he said. He remarked on the "ruthless oppression" they faced and reiterated his bafflement over the intensity of the hatred directed at him.

Sense of Relief and Public Support:

Dr. Heggade conveyed a sense of relief, saying, "My heart feels lighter now, like water flowing from a high mountain." He thanked everyone who placed firm faith in him, noting that millions of people have visited and told them, "If your Dharma loses, our Dharma loses." Courseware on Polity Simplified, 2e by Rangarajan R (Ex. IAS) for UPSC CSE 2025-26 | 60+ Video Conceptual Lectures | 400+ Solved Chapter-wise PYQs (2014-2024) | Online Webinars | Current Affairs, Mnemonics, Practice Tests, Real-life Examples & More Paperback – 1 April 2025

"They ask why this enmity is there. I also want to know why this hatred is necessary," he said. "We have never disparaged or hated anyone. Since we have done no wrong, we have self-confidence." He asserted that they do not need critics sitting in faraway places like Bengaluru, but rather people who stand with them. He also expressed special gratitude to all the women who showed love and support.

He concluded by crediting the SIT for allowing him to speak openly: "I have the courage to speak because the SIT report is partly out. I am indebted to the government; the truth is coming out because the SIT was formed." He confirmed that their "luster remains intact" and that the deities, Manjunatha Swamy and Annappa Swamy, will look after them. "We stand by the truth, and we will continue to do so," he concluded, wishing everyone well. Also Read: “End of an Era: IAF Retires MiG-21 Bison After 62 Years of Supersonic Legacy”