Karnataka honey trapping row: SC rejects PIL seeking independent probe into allegations

The Supreme Court on Wednesday refused to entertain a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) seeking an independent investigation into the alleged honey-trapping of legislators, public servants, and judges in Karnataka.

The petition called for a probe by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) or a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to investigate the allegations.

The PIL had raised alarm over the safety and integrity of public officials in Karnataka, specifically mentioning incidents where public servants, including prominent judges, may have fallen victim to honey-trapping schemes.


Honey-trapping, a form of entrapment, typically involves luring individuals into compromising situations with the intention of extorting them later through blackmail or threats.

The case has caused a stir in Karnataka, where the allegations have turned into a political controversy, sparking debates across the state. According to reports, the alleged incidents have involved various public figures.

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 had 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.