Karnataka rocked by honey trap scandal: 48 MLAs allegedly targeted, high-level probe demanded

Karnataka minister claims 48 politicians, including central leaders, honey-trapped

Karnataka’s political landscape has been shaken by explosive claims that at least 48 MLAs across party lines have been victims of honey trap operations, with alleged involvement extending to national political figures. The storm began when Cooperation Minister K N Rajanna openly admitted in the Legislative Assembly that not only was he targeted, but so were dozens of other lawmakers, demanding a high-level investigation into the scandal.

The controversy intensified after BJP MLA Basangouda Patil Yatnal alleged that a plot was underway to honey trap legislators to influence leadership and potentially install a new Chief Minister. Rajanna responded, asserting, “Karnataka has become a factory for CDs and pen drives,” and claimed both ruling and opposition leaders have fallen prey. “Pen drives of 48 MLAs are circulating. This menace isn’t limited to the ruling party—it includes Opposition leaders and even central leaders,” he said.

Rajanna stated he would file a formal complaint with Home Minister G Parameshwara, who assured the Assembly that a high-level probe would be initiated once a complaint is officially filed.

The issue took a sharper turn with Public Works Minister Sathish Jarkiholi confirming that two failed honey trap attempts had been made on a Karnataka minister, calling it a long-standing political tactic. “Some individuals are using honey trapping as an investment in politics,” he said.

Rajanna’s son, MLC Rajendra, also commented, revealing that such attempts have been happening over the past six months. “They begin with WhatsApp messages or calls. It’s a planned effort, and it needs to be exposed,” he said.

Opposition voices support, demand accountability

Opposition members, including BJP MLA Sunil Kumar, stood in solidarity with Rajanna and called for an extended Assembly discussion. “We support Minister Rajanna. If 40+ leaders have been targeted, we deserve answers,” he said.

Leader of Opposition R Ashoka demanded an investigation by a sitting judge, while BJP MLC C T Ravi urged the formation of a special investigation squad. “This isn’t just a media rumor. A senior minister has made these claims. Who is behind these operations? Who’s funding them?” Ravi asked.

Sunil Kumar further questioned the government’s role, hinting at internal sabotage: “If the government is running the honey trap factory, who will preach integrity to the people?”

Political fallout Aamid Congress infighting

Sources say that the issue has reached Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s office, with the minister targeted in the honey trap allegedly meeting him to lodge a verbal complaint. Reports suggest internal Congress rivalries may be linked to the scandal, with some ministers being targeted for their outspoken views within the party.

While Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar remained non-committal, calling for lawful investigation and protection for the victims, Home Minister Parameshwara initially claimed ignorance but later assured the Assembly of government action once formal complaints were submitted.

The revelations come amid a growing power tussle within Congress, raising questions about whether these honey trap operations are being politically weaponized.

As allegations fly and leaders demand answers, the scandal threatens to upend the state’s political dynamics. With both ruling and opposition benches implicated, the coming days may reveal deeper truths behind what’s being called Karnataka’s largest political entrapment controversy in recent history.

For all the latest updates, download PGurus App.

The post Karnataka rocked by honey trap scandal: 48 MLAs allegedly targeted, high-level probe demanded appeared first on PGurus.