Politics In The Shadow Of Honey-Traps

Leazy videos, pen drives and CDs are not new to Karnataka politics.

- Ramu Patil

However, if the government gets to the bottom of the revelations made on the floor of the assembly by a senior minister in Chief Minister Siddaramaiah cabinet, it could eclipse all the previous scandals and change how people perceive politics and politicians.

Earlier this week, Minister for Cooperation KN Rajanna, a close confidante of the chief minister, dropped a bombshell when he claimed that 48 politicians—including central leaders—were honey-trapped, and attempts were made to target him.

Although the minister, known for speaking bluntly, did not name anyone, many in the political circles, including those in the government, believe that his remarks exposed the power struggle within Congress. It opened a can of worms for Congress and its government in the state. The Opposition BJP, too, has alleged involvement of some Congress leaders.

It is hard to grasp that a senior minister could make such a statement in the state assembly on the issue that could negatively impact the government’s image, without the knowledge of the chief minister.