Karnataka HC Lifts Media Gag Order in Dharmasthala Case

Bengaluru

The Karnataka High Court on Friday quashed a lower court's media gag order in the Dharmasthala mass burials case, calling it an unconstitutional restriction on free speech and press freedom.

Justice M. Nagaprasanna ruled that the public's right to know must be protected, especially in matters involving serious allegations of institutional failure and possible criminal wrongdoing. The gag had barred 338 respondents, including YouTube channel Kudle Rampage, from publishing content related to the case.

The lower court had previously issued an ex-parte injunction prohibiting media coverage, drawing widespread criticism from press freedom advocates. Justice Nagaprasanna held that the injunction created a "chilling effect" on journalism and public accountability.

Advocate A. Velan, representing the petitioners, welcomed the verdict, stating it restored media freedom in a case raising disturbing questions about illegal burials and law enforcement lapses. The matter has been remanded to the trial court for reconsideration, but the High Court’s judgment outlines a framework to uphold natural justice and freedom of expression.

Meanwhile, the Special Investigation Team (SIT) has intensified efforts at a newly identified site in Dharmasthala, where skeletal remains were found during an excavation at “Point Number 6.” Officials believe the remains may be part of a larger ossuary, deepening concerns about widespread undocumented burials in the region.

The ongoing investigation has sparked public outrage and demands for accountability, with the High Court’s ruling now reaffirming the importance of transparency in the judicial process.