Jain seer who went missing found murdered in Karnataka's Belagavi

Belagavi: In a shocking incident, a Jain seer who went missing two days ago was found brutally murdered in Belagavi, Karnataka. The dismembered body of the seer was found in a dry borewell and Police arrested two persons in connection with the incident. Investigations suggest money-related motive behind the gruesome act.

Acharya Sri Kamakumara Nandi Maharaj was the founder of the Nandi Parvata Ashram in Hirekodi, Chikkodi Taluk. According to his disciples, he was last seen in the Ashram premises on Wednesday night. However, on further inspection, it was revealed that his personal belongings, such as the Kamandal and mobile phone, remained untouched, while the seer was not seen anywhere.

"On Thursday, the devotees searched for Swamiji but failed to locate him. On Friday afternoon, they reported the matter to the Chikkodi police," Belagavi SP Dr. Sanjeev M Patil said.

Based on the complaint, the police initiated a thorough investigation.
During their probe, the cops narrowed their focus on Narayan Mali, an individual known to the seer.

It is said that Mali murdered Swamiji within the premises of the Ashram and sought assistance from another person named Hasan Dalayat in carrying out the crime.

"Both the accused have been arrested, and we will request the court for their police custody," the SP said.

According to sources, the seer's body was found in a borewell in Katakbavi, Raibag Taluk, approximately 40 kilometers away from the Ashram. The property where the body was found allegedly belongs to a distant relative of Narayan Mali.

The motive behind the seer's murder is said to be linked to financial deals.
Reportedly, the victim had lent a substantial sum of money to Narayan, who allegedly had no intention of repaying the debt, leading to the crime.