Fri Mar 21 12:15:39 UTC 2025: ## Karnataka Assembly in Chaos as 18 BJP MLAs Suspended Amid Honey Trap Allegations

**Bengaluru, March 21, 2025** – The Karnataka Assembly erupted in chaos on Friday, culminating in the suspension of 18 BJP MLAs for six months. The dramatic events followed allegations of widespread honey trapping attempts targeting nearly 50 politicians, including ministers, and a debate over a 4% minority quota in government contracts.

The turmoil began after Cooperation Minister K N Rajanna revealed on Thursday that he and at least 47 other MLAs from various parties had been targeted in honey trap schemes over the past two decades. His statement followed the arrest of two women allegedly involved in honey trapping BJP leader Annappa Swamy. Home Minister G Parameshwara promised a thorough investigation.

However, on Friday, BJP and Janata Dal (Secular) MLAs disrupted proceedings, shouting slogans and waving CDs purportedly containing evidence of honey trapping attempts. They demanded an investigation led by a sitting high court judge. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, while assuring an investigation, stated that the government wouldn’t act rashly, drawing an analogy to not locking up an entire shed because an ox is tied up.

Despite the Chief Minister’s assurances, the opposition’s continued disruption led Speaker UT Khader to suspend 18 BJP MLAs, including prominent figures like Munirathna and Ashwath Narayan. Videos showed marshals forcibly removing some of the protesting MLAs from the Assembly, even as they chanted slogans.

Karnataka BJP President BY Vijayendra accused the Congress government of attempting to cover up the issue. The suspended MLAs maintain their innocence and allege a political witch-hunt. The incident highlights the deep political divisions within the Karnataka Assembly and the seriousness of the allegations of widespread honey trapping. The investigation’s findings are highly anticipated.

Read More