Bhatkal: The discovery of a decomposed body in the forest near Dongarpalli in Bhatkal has raised numerous questions. Was the body hanging from a rope for more than a month, unnoticed by anyone? Did the residents of the surrounding area not detect the foul odor from the decaying corpse? These are some of the pressing questions circulating among the public, but as of now, no clear answers have emerged.

What has baffled many is the proximity of the discovery to populated areas. The site is merely 100 meters away from a rickshaw stand, with shops and houses nearby. People frequently visit the area, including a fish stall about 200 meters away, and vehicles regularly pass along Bunder Road leading to the Bhatkal harbor. Despite all this activity, no one reported the smell of decomposition.

The incident came to light on Tuesday evening around 5 PM when a shepherd from Maqdoom Colony ventured into the forest to gather a stick to control his goats. While attempting to break a branch, he was shocked to discover a rope hanging from a tree, with a human skull lying beneath it. Startled, the shepherd immediately informed local residents, and soon, hundreds of curious onlookers gathered at the scene.

The body was not visible from Bunder Road, as it lay about 20 feet down a slope near a tree. The human remains were completely decomposed, leaving only bones. A slipper found nearby indicated that the body was that of a man.

Police arrived at the scene and took possession of the remains, which included a skull, bones, a shirt, half pants, and the slipper. All items were sent to Bhatkal Government Hospital for further examination. Samples have been preserved for investigation, and authorities may conduct a DNA test if necessary. The remains have been stored in a freezer to prevent further degradation.

The location of the body is approximately two kilometers from Bhatkal Port. Two packets of Vimal brand gutka were found in the pockets of the deceased's clothing, which the police have taken into evidence.

According to police sources, many fishermen from northern India, particularly from Uttar Pradesh and Bihar, work on fishing boats in Bhatkal. Based on the clothing and the gutka, it is suspected that the deceased may have originated from these regions. It is worth mentioning that in Bhatkal, there is a significant presence of laborers from states like Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Odisha, especially tile fitters, plasterers, and painters, who also tend to consume gutka in large quantities. Surprisingly, no missing person reports have been filed with the Bhatkal Police Station.

To aid in the identification of the deceased, images of the shirt and half pants found with the body are being published alongside this report. If anyone has any information regarding this case, they are urged to contact the Bhatkal Town Police Station or provide information through SahilOnline Media.