After violence erupted in Dharmasthala over coverage of the SIT probe into alleged mass burials, police confirmed the situation is now under control and multiple FIRs have been registered. An official statement noted that no one was seriously injured.

FIRs are being registered at Dharmasthala police station, including for an assault on YouTubers and damage to two of their vehicles by individuals claiming to support Dharmasthala, and for the attack on a Suvarna News reporter by individuals claiming to support the YouTubers. Cases for unlawful assembly pertain to three locations – Pangala, where police conducted a lathi charge, the Dharmasthala police station, and in front of a private hospital in Ujire.

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.

This report was republished from The News Minute as part of The News Minute-Newslaundry alliance. Read about our partnership here and become a subscriber here.