Karnataka honey trap row: SC to hear PIL seeking independent probe into matter soon

A PIL was filed in the Supreme Court on Monday seeking an independent investigation into the alleged honey-trapping of public servants, including judges, in Karnataka.

The petition, which was mentioned before the court for urgent hearing, has raised serious concerns over the safety and integrity of public officials in the state.

Meanwhile, the apex court has agreed to list the petition for hearing either on Monday or Tuesday.


The allegations of honey-trapping have created a political slugfest in Karnataka, with reports suggesting that several public servants, including prominent judges, may have been targeted in such schemes.

Honey-trapping typically involves the use of entrapment tactics, where individuals are lured into compromising situations, often leading to blackmail or extortion.

What is the Karnataka honey trap row?

The controversy erupted when State Cooperation Minister KN Rajanna disclosed that he had fallen victim to a honey trap scheme during an assembly session.

Rajanna's revelation came after former BJP Minister V Sunil Kumar accused the Congress government of running a "honey trap factory." BJP legislator Basanagouda Patil Yatnal further claimed that a senior Congress politician was involved in the scandal.

Rajanna asserted that he was not the only target, with other politicians also falling prey to similar traps. He claimed that 48 politicians from various parties, including Congress, BJP, and JDS, were implicated in the controversy.

The matter gained further traction when Rajanna’s statements were supported by several ministers, including Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar, who called for a full investigation into the allegations.