Karnataka Minister KN Rajanna, at the center of a failed honey trap attempt, revealed today that not just he but 48 MLAs have been targeted in similar cases over the past two decades. The shocking disclosure has sparked a political storm, with opposition BJP demanding a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe.
High-Level Investigation Ordered
PWD Minister Satish Jarkiholi confirmed that Rajanna was targeted twice, and a high-level probe will be initiated by the state home ministry. Speaking at the legislative assembly, Rajanna stated, “There is talk that a minister from Tumkuru has been a victim of a honey trap. There are only two of us from Tumkuru, one is me and the other is the Home Minister.”
Acknowledging the gravity of the issue, Rajanna urged for a thorough investigation, adding that he was ready to file a complaint himself. He further emphasized that members from all parties—Congress, BJP, and JD(S)—have fallen victim to such traps over the years.
‘Honey Traps Have Been Happening for 20 Years’
Jarkiholi stressed that honey-trapping is not a new phenomenon in Karnataka politics and has been occurring for the last two decades. He warned against political parties exploiting such cases for political gains and insisted that the practice must stop. “Every party—Congress, BJP, and JD(S)—has been a victim. This has to end,” he said.
He also revealed that he had spoken to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Home Minister G Parameshwara, demanding an investigation into the recent case. However, he insisted that the victim must come forward and file a complaint for any probe to proceed.
BJP Slams Congress, Demands CBI Probe
Jarkiholi’s statement has given the BJP fresh ammunition to target the Congress government. Senior BJP leader CT Ravi said, “Satish Jarkiholi is a senior leader. If he has made such a statement, then it must be true.” He demanded a thorough investigation to identify the masterminds behind the honey-trap operations.
Former BJP minister V Sunil Kumar, who initially raised the issue in the assembly, accused the Congress of running a “honey-trap factory.” He called for an immediate investigation by the state home department.
With the Karnataka government ordering a high-level probe and political parties trading barbs, the honey trap scandal has become a major flashpoint in the state’s political landscape.
