Former Karnataka Chief Minister and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Member of Parliament Basavaraj Bommai on Wednesday, 21 October demanded a comprehensive Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the ongoing sting operation controversy gripping the state's political landscape. Speaking to reporters in Haveri, Bommai argued that the Karnataka Police lacked the independence required to conduct a credible investigation into a matter of this scale and sensitivity.

What Bommai Said

Bommai was categorical that the current probe — initiated on the basis of a complaint filed by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah — was neither serious nor comprehensive. "Statements alone will not reveal anything. There must be an investigation. At present, a probe is being conducted based on a complaint submitted by Siddaramaiah. Therefore, it is not a serious or comprehensive investigation," he said.

He further contended that the controversy involved multiple individuals and that restricting the probe to a single complaint was inadequate. "A comprehensive investigation is necessary to establish the truth. The investigation must be handed over to the CBI. An independent investigation cannot be conducted by the Karnataka police," Bommai added.

Challenge to Karnataka Police SIT Track Record

Bommai questioned whether any investigation conducted by state police Special Investigation Teams (SITs) had ever succeeded in bringing the complete truth to light. He alleged that the police could come under pressure while probing a matter that touched prominent political figures, and argued this risk made a central agency's involvement imperative. He said the public had already lost confidence in SIT-led investigations in the state.

Pushback Against Home Minister Kharge

Home Minister Priyank Kharge had earlier maintained that the state police were conducting an appropriate investigation and that there was no need for a CBI referral. Bommai rejected this, saying the Home Minister could not simply issue a certificate declaring the probe satisfactory. "Their track record must be examined… In this particular matter, there is also a possibility of the police coming under pressure. That is why the case must be handed over to the CBI," he said.

Questions Around Siddaramaiah and Power Transfer

When asked whether the sting operation was intended to humiliate Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, Bommai noted that Siddaramaiah had not publicly addressed the controversy since it erupted. He said Siddaramaiah would reveal his thoughts before the public at an appropriate time. On whether the operation was linked to a proposed transfer of power within the ruling coalition, Bommai said Siddaramaiah had pursued a "distinctive and often rebellious political path" throughout his career, adding that the circumstances surrounding a potential leadership change raised several questions that only a thorough investigation could answer. On the blackmail angle, Bommai said it was for Siddaramaiah himself to clarify.

BJP Unity and Election Outlook

Separately, Bommai commented on the meeting between expelled BJP legislator Basanagouda Patil and BJP state president B.Y. Vijayendra, calling it a positive development. "There are no permanent enemies in politics. In my view, there are no enemies at all; there is only competition. Therefore, coming together and working in unity is a very good development," he said. Bommai expressed confidence that a united BJP could secure a significant electoral victory in the period ahead, provided its leaders and workers spoke with one voice.

The sting operation controversy has triggered a political storm in Karnataka, and all eyes are now on whether the Centre or the courts will weigh in on the demand for a CBI transfer.