Karnataka Honey Trap Scandal: 48 Politicians Allegedly Targeted, Explicit Videos Leaked
A shocking revelation has emerged from Karnataka, where at least 48 individuals, including ministers, legislators, and national leaders, have reportedly fallen victim to an extensive honey trap operation. State Cooperation Minister KN Rajanna brought the matter to light in the Assembly on Thursday, stating that explicit videos of the victims had been circulated.
Ministers and MLAs Among Victims
KN Rajanna disclosed that this scandal is not confined to Karnataka alone but has national implications, with leaders across political parties being targeted. “This issue is not limited to our state — it extends to the national level, involving leaders from various political parties across the country,” he remarked. He further claimed that 48 pen drives containing incriminating footage were in circulation, reinforcing the severity of the situation.
Attempts to Target Ministers
Public Works Minister Satish Jarkiholi revealed that a cabinet colleague had been subjected to two unsuccessful honey trap attempts. “It is true that it was tried but it did not succeed. This is not the first time this has happened in Karnataka; it has been happening for the last 20 years. Every party — Congress, BJP, JDS, is a victim of this,” he stated.
BJP state president BY Vijayendra also weighed in on the controversy, pointing out that KN Rajanna himself admitted that he and his son were targeted. Rajanna’s son, Rajendra Rajanna, an MLC, confirmed the ordeal. “For the last six months, it has been going on with me and my father. We thought it would be a normal phone call or video call, but day by day, more calls have been coming. I have spoken in the Assembly and requested the [state] Home Minister to investigate... it should be investigated...” he stated.
Allegations of a ‘Honey Trap Factory’
KN Rajanna further suggested that Karnataka has become a hub for such operations, claiming, “People say that there is a CD and pen drive factory in Karnataka. I have come to know that there are CDs and pen drives of 48 people available in the state. This network is spread across India, and even several union ministers have been trapped.” BJP legislator Basanagouda Patil Yatnal alleged that blackmail tactics were being used to sideline political rivals. BJP member V. Sunil Kumar went a step further, claiming in the Assembly that the government seemed to be operating “a honey-trap factory.”
Calls for a High-Level Investigation
In response to the growing concern, Karnataka Home Minister G Parameshwara has ordered a high-level probe into the scandal. “There are pen drives of 48 individuals from two parties. This is a dangerous menace. This is now a public issue. They attempted it on me too. I have evidence. I will file a complaint. Let it be revealed who is involved,” Rajanna stated. He emphasized the need for a thorough investigation under the leadership of a retired judge to ensure justice. Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar echoed the call for action, urging those affected to file police complaints so the matter could be investigated properly.
With allegations of systematic blackmail and political targeting, this scandal has raised serious concerns about privacy, security, and ethical conduct within Karnataka’s political landscape. As investigations unfold, all eyes will be on the government’s next steps in addressing this alarming issue.