Karnataka Minister Claims Honey-Trap Plot by Opponents; Home Minister Initiates High-Level Inquiry

Bengaluru, March 20 (NationPress) In a significant turn of events, Karnataka's Minister for Cooperation, K.N. Rajanna, alleged on Thursday during a House session that he was targeted in a honey-trap scheme orchestrated by political adversaries, warranting a thorough investigation.

In response to the allegations and the BJP's push for a review, Home Minister G. Parameshwara declared that a comprehensive probe would be initiated. “This issue concerns the integrity of every member of this House. We must resolve this,” he stressed.

The matter ignited a passionate discussion in the legislative assembly, with members expressing their emotions as they addressed the situation. This development is anticipated to shift the political landscape in the state significantly.

The topic was introduced by BJP MLA Basanagouda Patil Yatnal during his address regarding the state Budget.

Yatnal remarked: “The Home Minister has just taken his seat, and I wish to present a grave issue in this House. Karnataka's politics is currently experiencing a disgraceful chapter. For the past decade, our elected officials and ministers have been targeted, marking a dark period in our state's esteemed history.”

He further claimed: “There has been an attempt to honey-trap our Minister for Cooperation. This is not merely about political factions; it is a systematic effort to trap legislators. I call on the Chief Minister and the Home Minister to take decisive action. Honey trapping is being weaponized for political blackmail in our state, chiefly orchestrated by individuals seeking ministerial positions for themselves and their kin.”

“In Karnataka, certain individuals linked to specific political parties are adopting such tactics to secure their futures, as well as that of their families and even the Chief Minister's role. Today, Minister Rajanna was targeted; tomorrow, it could be another politician,” warned Yatnal.

Minister for Cooperation K.N. Rajanna, present in the assembly, characterized the situation as serious.

“Since BJP MLA Yatnal has mentioned my name, I must clarify. We cannot allow misinformation to spread, so I aim to correct the record. Many allege that Karnataka has turned into a hub for creating CDs and pen drives. I am not the one asserting this,” he stated.

Minister Rajanna continued, “This is a severe allegation. Reports indicate that two ministers from Tumakuru have been implicated in honey-trapping and caught. I hail from Tumakuru, and so does Home Minister G. Parameshwara.”

“Regarding the production of CDs and pen drives, around 48 individuals are involved—not just one or two—comprising members from both the ruling and opposition parties. Numerous legislators have secured court orders to block the airing of their footage. That is a separate matter,” he added.

“This issue is not limited to our state; it is prevalent at the national level. I will abstain from addressing the allegations against me here. I demand that Home Minister Parameshwara initiate an inquiry based on a written complaint I will file. He should identify the individuals orchestrating this—who the ‘directors’ and ‘producers’ of this scheme are. The public deserves to know who the ‘actresses’ involved are. The truth must emerge.”

He also remarked, “Previously, Revanna (JD(S) MLA and son of former Prime Minister H.D. Deve Gowda) and his family faced similar targeting. Evidence suggests attempts have been made against me as well. I will submit a complaint and demand a special investigation to uncover those responsible.”

At this juncture, BJP MLA N. Munirathna stood and proclaimed, “I implore you. I have also fallen victim to this scheme. The government can refer my case to the CBI. If I am found guilty, punish me as you see fit. I must express concern: in the future, I alert all MLAs that various conspiracies are being devised to undermine us.”

“They have already shattered my life. My children are grown, and my grandchildren are 15 years old. How can they step outside with dignity? If I have committed any wrongdoing, punish me accordingly,” Munirathna said, with deep emotion.

“Let those who falsely accused me of rape take an oath before the gods. To ruin my life, they filed a rape case against me. They brought in someone from afar and lodged a case against me in Ramanagara at 2 a.m. Do they have to resort to such extremes to destroy my life? What have I done to deserve this? Don’t they have families of their own? Won’t their loved ones suffer as well?” he queried.

“They have wrecked the life of BJP MLA Ramesh Jarkiholi. They have devastated Revanna’s family. They have ruined mine. How many more lives will they destroy? They will face dire consequences,” Munirathna lamented.

BJP MLA V. Sunil Kumar then remarked, “A responsible minister has raised this issue in the House, and it must be condemned. No one should have to endure such suffering. Political battles should revolve around ideologies, policies, and programs—not through unethical tactics. Since a minister has highlighted the honey-trapping issue, the House cannot remain silent.”

“Minister Rajanna has stated that 48 members have been honey-trapped. The Home Minister must address this in this session. If a minister from his own district faces such a plight, what about the common citizens of the state? Who is behind this? Is the government involved, or is it an individual's facilitation?” Sunil Kumar questioned.

“This cannot be tolerated. If politics degrades to this level, tomorrow, any of us could become victims. This is about dignity, not politics. Minister Rajanna expressed his emotions, and we must support anyone facing such a crisis. How can such honey-trap schemes be allowed to persist? The Home Minister must not postpone action. Let the House convene until midnight if necessary,” he urged.

Congress MLA H.C. Balakrishna inquired, “Let them clarify what exactly a honey trap is? Why does it occur?”

Minister Rajanna reiterated that even central leaders and judges have succumbed to such schemes.

In response, Home Minister Parameshwara stated, “BJP MLA Yatnal has raised a pressing issue, and Munirathna has spoken with genuine anguish. This pertains to every member of this House. It is not just one or two individuals who are victims—this must be completely eradicated.”

“Karnataka legislators are known for their reputation. My father served in the Upper House. Our predecessors have left us a legacy. It is our duty to uphold the dignity and honor of every member of this House. If we neglect this, it will escalate to a serious matter of reputation and integrity,” he stated.

“Minister Rajanna has indicated he will submit a written complaint. Based on that, I will order a high-level investigation. Let the truth be unveiled. The facts must be disclosed,” Parameshwara concluded.