Karnataka Sting Operation Row: Shivakumar’s Warning Sparks Probe Demand

GG News Bureau
Bengaluru, 13th Oct: An alleged sting operation controversy has triggered a political confrontation in Karnataka, with Chief Minister D K Shivakumar’s warning to Cabinet colleagues, a Congress MLA’s pen drive claim and opposition demands for an investigation putting the issue at the centre of state politics.

The controversy began on October 8, when Shivakumar reportedly cautioned ministers during a Cabinet meeting that attempts were being made to trap them through sting operations. He said he had been targeted since becoming Chief Minister and claimed to possess evidence to support his allegations. Shivakumar also said he knew who was allegedly orchestrating and financing the operations but declined to identify anyone publicly.

A day later, Congress MLA Ravikumar Ganiga displayed a pen drive and claimed it contained evidence that a Union minister and a Karnataka BJP leader were financing the alleged sting operations. He said he would release the documents within a week. The claims have not, in the information provided, been independently established.

The issue soon drew sharp reactions from opposition leaders, who questioned why the state government had not ordered a formal investigation. Union Minister and JD(S) leader H D Kumaraswamy on Monday challenged Shivakumar’s remark that “time will answer” the allegations, arguing that the government itself must establish the facts and identify those responsible.

Kumaraswamy also referred to allegations that Shivakumar had held an extended meeting at a five-star hotel in Bengaluru with a person purportedly linked to the sting operations. He demanded an inquiry into the alleged targeting of Cabinet ministers and questioned why the administration had not initiated a probe.

Former Chief Minister Siddaramaiah also called for the truth to emerge, saying he was aware that sting operations were being conducted and asking whether the identities of those behind them should not be established. Kumaraswamy cited Siddaramaiah’s remarks while renewing his demand for an investigation.

However, Public Works Department Minister Satish Jarkiholi sought to clarify Shivakumar’s warning, saying the Chief Minister had cautioned ministers about the possibility of being trapped through inducements such as money. According to Jarkiholi, Shivakumar had not confirmed that a specific sting operation had taken place or named anyone as being responsible.

Karnataka BJP president B Y Vijayendra also criticised the developments, saying the state’s political discourse had reached a troubling point and alleging that public respect for politicians was being eroded. He said those involved in wrongful activities would face consequences, while asserting that more details would emerge in the coming days.

With allegations, counterclaims and demands for accountability mounting, the controversy now centres on whether the claims will be backed by verifiable evidence and whether the state government will order an investigation.