Daijiworld Media Network - Bengaluru
Bengaluru, Mar 21: Karnataka's political landscape witnessed high drama in the Assembly on Thursday after minister for cooperation K N Rajanna claimed he was the target of a honey-trap conspiracy orchestrated by political adversaries. Calling for an inquiry into the matter, Rajanna asserted that such tactics must be exposed and condemned.
The revelation triggered intense discussions, with BJP MLA Basanagouda Patil Yatnal bringing up the issue during a speech on the state Budget. Yatnal alleged that honey-trapping was being systematically used in Karnataka politics as a means of blackmail and manipulation, impacting multiple legislators across party lines.
“An attempt has been made to honey-trap our cooperation minister. This is not just about one individual or one party. It is a larger conspiracy aimed at controlling political figures,” Yatnal stated. He urged the chief minister and home minister to act decisively against the perpetrators.
Minister Rajanna, addressing the House, called for a thorough investigation, warning that similar attempts could be made against other politicians. “This is a serious issue, and the truth must come to light. We need to uncover those behind these schemes,” he emphasized. He further claimed that nearly 48 individuals, including legislators from both ruling and opposition parties, had fallen victim to such schemes, with many securing court orders to prevent the release of incriminating material.
Home minister G Parameshwara, responding to the escalating debate, assured the House of a high-level probe. “This is a matter of dignity for every member of this Assembly. We cannot let such tactics undermine our political system. A thorough investigation will be conducted,” he stated.
BJP MLA N Munirathna also spoke emotionally about being a victim of a similar conspiracy. “They have already ruined my life. If I am guilty, let there be a CBI probe. But if I am innocent, those responsible must be held accountable,” he said, demanding justice.
The heated discussion saw legislators across party lines expressing concern over the growing trend of honey-trapping in politics. BJP’s V Sunil Kumar called for urgent action, warning that such unethical tactics could destroy the integrity of the political system. “Political battles should be fought over ideologies, not through deceit,” he remarked.
As the controversy deepened, Rajanna reiterated his demand for a formal investigation, stating that he would file a written complaint. “Let the truth be revealed, and let those behind this conspiracy face justice,” he declared.