Dharmasthala Case, Pastor John Shamine and Notorious Rowdy Madan Bugadi Posed as Human Rights Authorities

25-08-25 02:29 am       Mangaluru Correspondent   ಕ್ರೈಂ

The Dharmasthala case, which initially stirred statewide controversy, has now taken a sensational turn as shocking details emerge about those posing as “human rights officials.

Mangaluru, Aug. 24: The Dharmasthala case, which initially stirred statewide controversy, has now taken a sensational turn as shocking details emerge about those posing as “human rights officials.” Former police officer Girish Matteennavar and activist Mahesh Shetty Timarodi, who were already facing setbacks in the case, allegedly introduced two dubious figures as human rights commission authorities during their presence at the Belthangady police station.

One of them was none other than notorious Hubballi rowdy-sheeter Madan Bugadi, accused in multiple cases of murder, attempt to murder, extortion, and cattle theft. Sources reveal that Bugadi, dressed in a coat, was introduced by Matteennavar to the media as a “human rights officer.” Bugadi even mocked the police, saying he had come to surrender and treated the station as if it were his own relative’s home.

The second was Pastor John Shamine, a Bengaluru-based Christian pastor who runs a church in Doddaballapura. He is also accused of misusing the name of “human rights” to intimidate police officials and extort money. Shamine reportedly heads an organization registered under the name “International Human Rights Anti-Corruption and Social Justice Commission” and often projects himself as an authority figure while threatening law enforcement.

Both men stood alongside Matteennavar during his public statements, creating the impression that they were official human rights representatives. However, revelations show that their backgrounds are highly questionable. While Bugadi has a long criminal history and is well-known to Hubballi police, Pastor Shamine allegedly exploits the cover of human rights activism to further his own agenda.

The episode has now raised serious questions about how such individuals were allowed to pose as human rights officials, misleading not only the media but also the Belthangady police. Police sources say cases may soon be filed against both Mugadi and Shamine for misrepresentation and obstruction.