Karnataka’s political landscape has been thrown into turmoil with a shocking honey-trap scandal that has grabbed national attention. The controversy began when Karnataka minister K.N. Rajanna alleged that he was the target of two honey-trap attempts at his residence. The issue has since escalated, leading to heated debates, courtroom battles, and demands for a high-level investigation.

The Allegations and Political Fallout

The scandal first came to light when Minister Rajanna filed a complaint, stating that an unidentified man had visited his residence twice, accompanied by different women, in what he believed was an attempt to honey-trap him. Following his claims, Karnataka’s Home Minister G. Parameshwara confirmed that no formal complaint had been registered but assured that necessary investigations would be conducted if required.

The incident quickly took a political turn, with opposition parties accusing the ruling Congress government of not taking the matter seriously. The BJP, which is in opposition, claimed that such activities were being used as a political tool and further accused the government of phone tapping. BJP leaders also warned that they would not allow the Karnataka Assembly to function unless the suspension of 18 of their MLAs—who were protesting inside the House—was revoked.

Judiciary and Legal Developments

The honey-trap controversy has not only impacted the state’s political environment but also raised concerns about the involvement of the judiciary. The Bengaluru Advocates' Association has urged the Karnataka High Court’s Chief Justice to look into the matter amid rumors that some judges were also targeted through similar tactics. This has led to a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) being filed in the Supreme Court, seeking a CBI or SIT-led investigation. The Supreme Court has agreed to hear the plea on March 25.

Suspension of 18 BJP MLAs

In a parallel development, 18 BJP MLAs were suspended from the Karnataka Assembly for six months after they disrupted proceedings over the honey-trap allegations. BJP leaders have condemned the suspension, terming it an attack on democracy, and have demanded an immediate revocation.

DK Shivakumar and the Congress’s Response

Karnataka Deputy CM D.K. Shivakumar has distanced himself from the controversy, stating that he would not comment on the honey-trap allegations. However, reports suggest that Congress High Command, including Mallikarjun Kharge and Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, has taken the issue seriously and ordered an internal probe.

What Lies Ahead?

With the Supreme Court hearing a PIL on March 25, the fate of the case could change depending on whether a CBI or SIT investigation is ordered. The political tension in Karnataka continues to rise as more revelations are expected in the coming days.

The honey-trap scandal has now transformed from a mere political controversy into a full-blown legal and ethical debate, raising serious concerns about corruption, blackmail, and surveillance in Karnataka’s political sphere. As investigations proceed, it remains to be seen who the real perpetrators are and how deep the conspiracy runs.

Stay tuned for more updates on this evolving political storm.