Supreme Court Rejects PIL Demanding Investigation into Karnataka 'Honey Trap' Allegations
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Synopsis
The Supreme Court has dismissed a PIL that sought an independent investigation into Karnataka Minister K.N. Rajanna's claims of being targeted by a honey trap. The court questioned the relevance of a non-resident filing such a petition, while the political controversy continues to unfold in the state Assembly.
Key Takeaways
- The Supreme Court dismissed a PIL regarding a honey trap scandal.
- Karnataka Minister K.N. Rajanna claimed political rivals targeted him.
- The court questioned the jurisdiction of a non-Karnataka resident.
- A high-level inquiry is planned, depending on a formal complaint.
- The issue has led to political turmoil and the suspension of BJP MLAs.
New Delhi, March 26 (NationPress) The Supreme Court on Wednesday rejected a public interest litigation (PIL) that called for an independent investigation into Karnataka Minister for Cooperation K.N. Rajanna’s allegation of being targeted by political adversaries through a honey trap.
The bench, comprising Justices Vikram Nath, Sanjay Karol, and Sandeep Mehta, declined to consider the petition, questioning how an individual from outside Karnataka could be involved in the state's matters.
Ultimately, the top court dismissed the PIL, which sought an inquiry into the purported honey trap scandal, either under the Supreme Court's supervision or led by a committee chaired by a retired judge.
During a recent Assembly session, Senior Minister Rajanna revealed that he had been a victim of a honey trap and asserted that over 48 politicians in Karnataka and beyond had faced similar situations.
On March 24, the PIL was brought up for urgent hearing before Chief Justice of India (CJI) Sanjiv Khanna, who promised to schedule the case within a couple of days.
In light of Rajanna’s statements and the BJP's calls for a thorough investigation, state Home Minister G. Parameshwara announced plans for a comprehensive inquiry.
"This is a matter concerning the dignity of all members in this House. It must be addressed," Parameshwara stressed.
"Minister Rajanna has indicated he will submit a formal complaint. Based on that, I will initiate a high-level inquiry. The truth must be revealed. The facts need to be disclosed,” he added.
However, when questioned about the ongoing situation, the Home Minister indicated on Monday that he had not yet received any formal complaint from Minister Rajanna.
"Without a complaint, no actions can be initiated. There must be grounds for action. No action can be taken without an FIR,” he remarked.
This issue ignited a passionate debate in the Legislative Assembly, leading to intense discussions among members, with BJP member N. Munirathna accusing Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar of being behind the honey trap network in Karnataka.
The situation escalated, resulting in the suspension of 18 BJP MLAs from the Assembly for six months immediately, due to disrespect shown to the Speaker’s Chair on Friday. This suspension followed disruptions in proceedings as they protested in the Well of the House, demanding a judicial or CBI probe into the alleged honey trap attempt involving Minister Rajanna.
The Karnataka BJP criticized the Congress-led government for suspending its MLAs, asserting that they were penalized for seeking justice regarding the alleged honey trap scandal.
