A political confrontation has erupted in Karnataka following Chief Minister DK Shivakumar’s revelation during a cabinet meeting that efforts were underway to entrap him and senior ministers through covert sting operations.
The claims have triggered sharp exchanges between the ruling Congress administration, Union Minister HD Kumaraswamy, and opposition BJP leaders, with calls mounting for an official state-level investigation.
Warning to Cabinet and Allegations of Masterminds
Speaking during a cabinet briefing, Chief Minister Shivakumar cautioned his ministerial colleagues to remain vigilant against potential entrapment schemes involving financial or personal lures. Shivakumar asserted that he possessed proof regarding targeted attempts aimed at his office since assuming the Chief Minister’s position.
”They are trying to start with me. I have all the proof. I occupy a position of responsibility and I don’t speak carelessly. This all started after I became CM,” Shivakumar stated. *”I know who is doing it, who the mastermind/godfather is behind it, who is financing it, and what they are doing.” *
Fanning the flame, Congress MLA Ravikumar Ganiga brandished a drive containing alleged evidence, asserting that a senior “Union Minister and Karnataka BJP leader” was funding the covert sting efforts, and promised to release details in due course.
Opposition Demands Inquiry into CM’s Claims
Union Minister and JD(S) leader HD Kumaraswamy challenged Shivakumar’s response that “time will answer,” demanding to know why the Karnataka government has not ordered a Special Investigation Team (SIT) or formal inquiry into its own Chief Minister’s claims.
- Kumaraswamy’s Challenge: Questioning why administrative action was delayed if evidence exists, Kumaraswamy stated that the government must establish facts and reveal who is allegedly masterminding these operations.
- Support for Investigation: Senior Congress leader and former Chief Minister Siddaramaiah also advocated for bringing clarity to the situation, stating that the public deserves to know the truth behind the allegations.
- BJP Reaction: Karnataka BJP Chief B.Y. Vijayendra criticized the public fallout, labeling the ongoing saga as an erosion of political standards and calling for transparent accountability.
Cabinet members, including Public Works Department Minister Satish Jarkiholi, clarified that Shivakumar’s initial address was a preventive warning to ministers against potential entrapment rather than a formal legal accusation, even as opposition parties continue pressuring the administration for a comprehensive probe.
