What TV doesn't, print can't; we deliver.
What TV doesn't, print can't; we deliver.
Hindu Voice Team: A startling revelation has come from the Dakshina Kannada District Police, exposing a fake human rights team that allegedly tried to malign the reputation of Dharmasthala and mislead law enforcement under the guise of a human rights investigation.
According to an official police report, a group of individuals falsely identifying themselves as officers of a human rights commission arrived at the Belthangady Police Station, attempting to interfere in official matters related to Dharmasthala and project a negative image of the temple’s administration.
The Incident and Initial Reports
The issue gained public attention following a detailed report published by Kannadaprabha on August 26, 2025, under the headline:
“Rowdy sheeter among fake Human Rights Commission officers who came to the police station with Girish Mattanna.”
Following this publication, the Human Rights Commission took suo motu cognizance of the matter under Section 12 of the Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993, and directed the Belthangady Police to conduct a detailed investigation.
During the inquiry, it was found that activist Mahesh Shetty Timarodi had arrived at the police station along with Girish Mattannavar and several others. Among them was a man named Madan Bugudi, who introduced himself as a Human Rights officer and appeared in formal attire. However, police verification revealed that he held no such designation.
Past Criminal Record and Impersonation
Further investigation exposed Madan Bugudi as a rowdy-sheeter from Hubballi, previously paraded publicly by local police as a known offender. Another member of the group, identified as John Simon, also claimed to be a Human Rights representative based in Bengaluru.
Police confirmed that John Simon runs a private church in Doddaballapura and heads an NGO named “Human Rights Anti-Corruption Social Justice Commission.” The organization is not officially recognized by the government. Investigators allege that Simon misused fake credentials to intimidate police officers and influence citizens who had complaints against law enforcement, promising them “protection” under the banner of human rights.
Multiple public complaints have since been filed against him, calling for legal action. Police sources described Simon as a self-proclaimed pastor who routinely misuses the concept of human rights for personal and political motives.
Targeting Dharmasthala Temple
On August 30, 2025, Girish Mattannavar and Madan Bugudi again visited the Belthangady Police Station, this time staging a press conference in the presence of media representatives. They identified themselves as devotees of Sri Kshetra Dharmasthala.
However, police investigations revealed that their real intent was to create unrest and defame the sacred institution. By posing as Human Rights officials, the group allegedly spread confusion among media circles and the public.
The report also links the accused with several social media activists, including Mohd Sameer, who allegedly participated in circulating misleading information about Dharmasthala’s management and temple authorities.
Police Action and Legal Proceedings
Following the inquiry, Belthangady Police registered Case No. 100/2025 under the provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023. The accused face charges under:
Section 204 – Destruction of evidence
Section 319(2) – Impersonation of a public servant
Section 353(2) – Obstruction of lawful duty
Section 3(5) – Aggravated misuse of authority
The police have submitted a detailed progress report to the Chief Minister of Karnataka, assuring strict legal action against those involved.
Religious and Motivational Aspects
The police report highlights that John Simon, operating as a Christian pastor, frequently interferes in official investigations while projecting himself as a Human Rights officer. Authorities suspect the use of religious cover to manipulate sensitive cases, including those involving Hindu religious institutions.
The investigation further names Girish Mattannavar, Mahesh Shetty Timarodi, and Mohd Sameer as key figures allegedly coordinating a social media propaganda network designed to spread misinformation about Dharmasthala.
Police findings suggest that certain individuals initially portrayed as “victims” or “devotees,” such as Chinniah (known as the Masked Man) and Sujatha Bhat, were misled and used to further the false narrative.
Ongoing Investigation
Authorities have described the episode as a deliberate attempt to damage communal harmony and undermine public trust in religious institutions. The investigation remains ongoing, with a focus on identifying the financial and organizational links behind the fake human rights operation.
Police sources confirmed that the Dakshina Kannada District Police and the State Intelligence Unit are working jointly to determine whether the group has wider connections beyond Karnataka.
(The above piece is written based on a report published by The Commune. You can read the original report HERE )
