Follow TNM’s WhatsApp channel for news updates and story links.
In connection with the Dharmasthala clash, on Wednesday, August 6, officials confirmed that the situation has now returned to normal. “All have dispersed and the situation is peaceful,” read an official statement, which also noted that preliminary medical checks found no grievous injuries among those hospitalised.
FIRs are being registered at Dharmasthala police station, including for assault on YouTubers and damage to two of their vehicles by individuals claiming to support Dharmasthala, and for the assault on a Suvarna News reporter by individuals claiming to support the YouTubers. Cases are also taken for Unlawful assembly at three locations – Pangala, where police conducted a lathi charge, at the Dharmasthala police station, and in front of a private hospital in Ujire.
According to police, further legal action will follow after verification of video evidence.
The clashes erupted when YouTubers, including Ajay Anchan of Kudla Rampage, Abhishek from United Media, and Vijay of Sanchari Studio — were allegedly assaulted while interviewing Bigg Boss fame Rajat near Pangala Road. Rajat had just visited the family of Sowjanya, a woman whose mysterious death in 2013 is now at the centre of the ongoing SIT probe into alleged mass burials.
Shortly after, a Suvarna News reporter, Harish, was also reportedly attacked near a hospital where the injured YouTubers were admitted. Two video cameras were damaged and the windshield of a vehicle displaying Sowjanya’s photo was shattered.
Protests followed at multiple locations, with groups accusing YouTubers of spreading misinformation and damaging the region’s reputation. Others demonstrated in support of digital media voices. Police resorted to mild lathi charge to control the situation. Inspector General of Police (Western Range) Amit Singh and SP Arun K visited the locations to monitor the situation.
Bengaluru-based activist and YouTuber Keerthi Kumar U had earlier met with SIT officials to express concern over alleged leaks in the investigation and demanded action against those circulating unverified reports.
The Communist Party of India (Marxist), the DYFI, and Digital Media for Democracy condemned the assaults on journalists. CPI(M) Karnataka secretary K Prakash called for immediate arrest of the attackers, stating the freedom of press must be protected.
As of Wednesday night, officials confirmed the situation in Dharmasthala had stabilised and investigations were ongoing.