Dharmasthala Row A Paid Plot? YouTuber Claims He Was Approached: 'They Discussed Funding'

Last Updated:September 06, 2025, 18:42 IST

Sumanth Gowda, who runs the ‘Golden Kannadiga’ vlog channel, has alleged that several influencers were paid to create negative content against Dharmasthala

Security personnel with the whistleblower, in mask, near a site of an alleged burial related to the Dharmasthala mass burial case. (PTI file photo)

A well-known YouTuber has alleged that several influencers were paid to create negative content against Dharmasthala, the holy town in Karnataka’s Dakshin Kannada district, which has been at the centre of a controversial “mass burial" case.

Sumanth Gowda, who runs the ‘Golden Kannadiga’ vlog channel, said he too was offered money to make such videos, hinting at a deliberate propaganda campaign targeting the town, NDTV reported.

Speaking about the claims, Gowda said, “We must look at who all are behind this, who is funding it. I am an eyewitness. They discussed the funding with me as well. I had made a vlog when I was there with them, but I didn’t make a video of what we spoke about. If I had the maturity, I would have recorded something."

Gowda further added that while he had filmed a vlog during his visit, he did not record conversations about the funding offers, regretting that he did not document it.

The controversy first emerged in July when CN Chinnayya claimed he had helped bury hundreds of bodies in Dharmasthala, including women who were allegedly sexually assaulted. He also said he was threatened if he refused to take part. Chinnayya told the police he was filled with guilt and was willing to become a witness, offering to reveal the burial sites once he received protection. Following this, the police registered a case and launched an investigation.

However, during cross-examination, the Special Investigation Team (SIT) discovered that Chinnayya had been lying. As a result, his witness protection was withdrawn, and he was arrested on charges of perjury.

In the latest developments, the SIT probing allegations of multiple murders, rapes, and burials has intensified its inquiry. SIT chief Pronab Mohanty reviewed the probe progress at the Belthangady office and is exploring various angles. Several people have been questioned, including activist Girish Mattannavar, who supported the complainant and is accused of posting inflammatory social media content.

The SIT has also summoned Kerala-based YouTuber Munaf of Pokkunnu, who has been actively posting about the allegations. Details of the ongoing inquiry remain undisclosed by officials, but more statements are expected in the coming days.

The SIT has conducted excavations at several sites along the Netravathi River, recovering some skeletal remains, but the investigation continues amid growing calls for clarity and justice.

(With inputs from PTI)

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