Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar Claims Hired Groups Tried to Trap Him

Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar stated on Thursday that hired individuals attempted to run a sting operation against him. He mentioned that these entrapment attempts have taken place ever since he assumed office in June this year. The chief minister declared that he holds concrete evidence, photographs, and knowledge of the financial backers and masterminds behind the plan. Just a day prior, Shivakumar warned his cabinet ministers to stay alert against potential sting operations, honey traps, and sleaze videos. Union Minister and Janata Dal (Secular) state president H.D. Kumaraswamy responded by challenging the chief minister to launch a special investigation team probe. Kumaraswamy claimed that Shivakumar's statements were an attempt to deflect from land grab allegations on Bengaluru's outskirts. He also questioned why past incidents involving political targets, such as former chief minister Siddaramaiah, were kept quiet.

Context

Sting operations and political blackmail using leaked videos have a long history in Karnataka politics, impacting leaders across multiple parties over the years. Lawmakers and ministers have previously raised concerns in the state assembly regarding dozens of politicians allegedly falling prey to such entrapment schemes.