Honey trap: Karnataka CM rules out probe as minister didn't give names
“It is the duty of the State Government to provide protection (to the victim) and erring persons will be punished,” assured the Chief Minister and stated “It is wrong to honey trap.”
BENGALURU: Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Friday clarified that cooperation minister K.N. Rajanna has not revealed any names regarding the alleged “honey trap” attempts made against him. “Had he disclosed any names, action would have followed,” the Chief Minister stated, ruling out any suggestion that the State government might be shielding those responsible.
The controversy first surfaced on Thursday, when minister Rajanna informed the Assembly of two attempts to “honey trap” him, prompting calls from Opposition BJP MLAs for a judicial inquiry. Responding to these demands in the Assembly, Siddaramaiah emphasised that no formal complaint had been registered by the minister, and reiterated that “it is the duty of the State government to provide protection to the victim and ensure the punishment of those at fault.”
Siddaramaiah noted that home minister Dr G. Parameshwar had already addressed the Assembly on the issue, assuring a thorough investigation if the minister files a police complaint. “Even after the home minister’s assurance, it is not right on the part of BJP legislators to keep insisting on an additional explanation,” the Chief Minister added.
Meanwhile, Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, speaking to reporters in Kodagu, disclosed that he had advised the concerned individual to file a police complaint at the earliest to facilitate an investigation. Pointing out that “honey traps don’t happen all of a sudden,” he remarked, “If you initiate communication, others will respond. If you refrain from reacting, then no one will show interest.”
Shivakumar compared the situation to his interactions with the media, stating, “If media persons wish to talk to me, I respond. Similarly, there has to be some initial communication for a situation like a honey trap to arise.”
As of now, minister Rajanna is yet to file a formal complaint. The State government has assured that once a complaint is lodged, an inquiry will be carried out to identify those responsible. The Chief Minister maintained that the government will not condone any misconduct and will ensure that lawful action is taken against perpetrators of any attempted “honey trap.”