HD Kumaraswamy seeks CBI probe into alleged sting targeting Karnataka leaders

Union Minister for Heavy Industries and Steel HD Kumaraswamy on Tuesday called for a CBI investigation into allegations of surveillance and sting operations targeting political leaders and their families in Karnataka. He said he would submit a formal complaint to Home Minister Amit Shah, seeking an independent probe.

Speaking to the media in Bengaluru, Kumaraswamy said the investigation should establish who was behind the alleged operations, who carried them out and the roles of those involved. He urged the state government to refer the matter to the CBI to ensure that the investigation was free from political influence.

“Those who have done nothing wrong need not fear an investigation. Whoever is responsible must be investigated, regardless of their position,” he said, adding that anyone found guilty should face strict action.


The JD(S) state president also urged former chief minister Siddaramaiah to speak out over what he described as an alleged conspiracy against him, saying the issue should not be left to him alone to raise.

Kumaraswamy alleged that Chief Minister DK Shivakumar had engaged four retired police officers after taking office to collect information on conversations involving ministers, legislators and others using advanced surveillance equipment. He claimed discussions about the alleged monitoring were also taking place within the police department.

The allegations have not been independently established. Kumaraswamy said an impartial investigation was necessary to determine whether political leaders, including members of the ruling Congress, had been monitored.

He also questioned the investigation into the circulation of videos on pen drives in Mandya and Hassan shortly before the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. The videos featured women and triggered controversy over privacy and the handling of the material.

Kumaraswamy sought details of arrests made in connection with the circulation of the videos, the number of women who had filed complaints and the findings of the investigation so far. He alleged that the circulation had harmed the dignity and privacy of the women concerned and their families.

He also questioned public statements made during the controversy about the number of women allegedly subjected to sexual assault, asking how many had subsequently lodged complaints.