Mon Mar 31 19:30:00 UTC 2025: ## Karnataka’s Political Landscape Roiled by Fresh “Honey Trap” Allegations

**Bengaluru, April 1, 2025** – The Karnataka Legislative Assembly has been embroiled in a new controversy involving allegations of a widespread “honey trap” operation targeting politicians. The scandal, revealed during the budget session, has exposed deep divisions within the ruling Congress party and sparked a police investigation.

Cooperation Minister K.N. Rajanna, a member of Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s faction, claimed that 48 leaders across parties, including some at the national level, were victims of honey trapping attempts. He described the situation as an “epidemic” that has tarnished Karnataka’s image, leading to the state being dubbed a “CD and pen drive factory.” Rajanna stated that some politicians were forced to obtain court injunctions to prevent the release of compromising videos.

Home Minister G. Parameshwara responded by promising a high-level investigation into the matter, describing it as a “question of honor” for the Assembly. A Criminal Investigation Department (CID) inquiry has commenced, despite the absence of video evidence from Rajanna’s residence where the alleged attempt took place.

The timing of the allegations has fueled speculation of political maneuvering within the Congress party, particularly between Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and his deputy, D.K. Shivakumar. While Rajanna is aligned with Siddaramaiah, Shivakumar has denied any involvement.

The controversy has drawn criticism for conflating consensual relationships with serious cases of sexual abuse. The accusations involve allegations against both ruling party and opposition figures, including former JD(S) MP Prajwal Revanna, currently jailed on separate rape charges, and BJP MLA Munirathna, also facing rape charges and allegations of using videos for blackmail. The ease with which these compromising videos have entered the public domain, particularly ahead of recent elections, raises further concerns.

The incident echoes a 2012 scandal involving BJP ministers caught watching pornography in the Assembly. While the current situation highlights the need to address sexual abuse seriously, concerns remain about the potential exploitation of such allegations for political gain. The CID investigation is ongoing.

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