DHARMASTHALA: In the wake of controversial revelations regarding alleged deaths in Dharmasthala, the Udupi police registered a case against Kozhikode native Manaf, a lorry owner, timber trader in Karnataka and YouTuber.

The case was filed under sections such as promoting religious enmity by making unnecessary posts on social media and forging documents. Manaf is likely to appear before investigating officer Jitendra Kumar Dayama in Belthangady on Monday. Manaf has also been asked to present evidence in the allegations made through his YouTube channel. The SIT is planning to expand the investigation in the context of the action committee formed in Kerala demanding an investigation into the mysterious deaths in Dharmasthala.

The SIT suspects the allegations are part of a wider conspiracy to taint the 800-year-old temple run by a Jain family in Dharmasthala.

Meanwhile, the investigation team took Vittal Gowda, the maternal uncle of the missing person, into custody. It is indicated that Gowda previously stated that it was he who brought the skull to the forest. He said it was Chinnayya who handed it over to him. The interrogation of Chinnayya, who is in SIT custody, is continuing.

Manaf said he would appear before SIT and give evidence. He sees the notice as an opportunity to prove the truth and clear the air.

'An FIR was filed against me for liking a video regarding the news. My life is under threat. Some people are deliberately trying to create religious hatred,” said Manaf.