Bengaluru: Actor Prakash Raj’s name has surfaced in a writ petition filed by Chinnaiah, described as a key accused in the Dharmasthala “conspiracy” case linked to the reputation of the Dharmasthala Manjunatha Swamy Temple.
The centuries-old temple in Karnataka draws thousands of devotees daily. Chinnaiah, a former employee, had earlier triggered nationwide controversy by claiming he buried bodies of people who were raped and murdered near the Netravathi riverbank. A Special Investigation Team (SIT) was formed to probe the allegations.
According to the report, despite excavations at multiple locations cited by Chinnaiah, investigators found no evidence of buried bodies. Subsequent rounds of inquiry concluded that his claims were false and were made with the intent of tarnishing the temple’s image.
In his court filing, Chinnaiah alleged he was used as a tool in a larger plot to defame the temple, and he mentioned Prakash Raj and some activists. He also claimed a conspiracy involving financial backing of Rs 200 crore for an anti-temple campaign.
Responding on X, Prakash Raj urged people to ignore “fabricated stories” spread by those with malicious intent. He said he is currently out of town and will clarify his position in a press meet after returning. Karnataka minister Priyank Kharge cautioned against rushing to conclusions, noting that merely being named does not make someone an accused, and said the High Court has directed the SIT to submit its report by June 29. The BJP has demanded that the government make the SIT report public.
