Former Karnataka CM Demands CBI Inquiry into Alleged Sting Operation Targeting Ministers

Haveri, October 14 (Daily Kiran) : Former Karnataka Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai has called for a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) inquiry into an alleged sting operation aimed at state ministers. Speaking at a press conference in Haveri, he stressed the necessity of an impartial investigation to uncover the truth.

Bommai highlighted that Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar had acknowledged the existence of sting operations against ministers and urged him to order an immediate investigation. He noted, “Sting operations were once conducted under specific circumstances, but they now seem to be employed for political advantage or to intimidate opponents.”

The former chief minister raised concerns about the credibility of the chief minister’s claims, questioning how Shivakumar could warn five ministers about being targeted if he had no prior knowledge of the sting operations. He also mentioned that Shivakumar claimed he himself had been a target of such operations.

Additionally, Bommai pointed out that information allegedly related to former Chief Minister Siddaramaiah was circulating on social media, questioning why the government had not initiated an investigation into these incidents.

“Let there be an inquiry, and let the truth come out. Who is conducting these sting operations, against whom, and for what purpose? The motives behind these operations must be uncovered,” he stated. He emphasized that the intelligence apparatus is under state control and urged the chief minister to clarify the basis of his statements regarding the alleged sting operations.

He questioned, “If the chief minister acknowledges that sting operations are happening but remains silent without ordering an investigation, it raises natural concerns. Are these operations meant to create confusion or intimidate cabinet ministers?”

Bommai criticized the reliance on the state’s Special Investigation Team (SIT), claiming that nearly 25 SITs have been formed over the past three years without delivering justice in many cases. He noted that both ruling and opposition party members have raised complaints, making it essential for an independent agency to conduct the investigation.

“In light of these circumstances, the public may feel it is appropriate to hand the matter over to the CBI. We are demanding a CBI inquiry so that an agency independent of state politics can investigate the issue. The state government should make a prompt decision to ensure that the truth is revealed,” he added.

When asked about a proposed meeting between Union Home Minister Amit Shah and former Chief Minister Kumaraswamy, Bommai stated that the decision rests with Kumaraswamy and refrained from further comment, reiterating the need for an investigation.

Regarding whether Shivakumar had made baseless claims about the sting operation, Bommai remarked that the chief minister is not someone who speaks without foundation. He concluded, “Shivakumar is not one to make unfounded statements. He must have some information, which is why he made those comments. He also stated that he is ready to provide all information and cooperate with any investigating agency. It would be better if he orders the investigation himself.”