Karnataka CM DK Shivakumar claims plot to trap him in sting operation

Deputy CM G Parameshwara and home minister Priyank Kharge backed Shivakumar’s claims.

BENGALURU: Chief minister DK Shivakumar Thursday claimed an attempt was made to trap him in a sting operation soon after he took charge, saying he had photographs and documents to identify those behind it.His claim came a day after Union minister HD Kumaraswamy alleged that Shivakumar had used a sting operation to force Siddaramaiah out as chief minister.“I have collected details of the people through our police officers and have the documentation ready. I know the pretext under which they came and whom they met,” Shivakumar said.DKS puts his colleagues, officials on honey-trap alertHe said it was not the first such attempt, recalling that a private television channel had earlier tried something similar when he was minister.Shivakumar cautioned cabinet colleagues and govt officials to remain vigilant. He said he had three rings of security around him and had moved several people out of their positions over what he described as questionable intent. “Some of these people were hired by political functionaries, and I have strong evidence,” he said.Deputy CM G Parameshwara and home minister Priyank Kharge backed Shivakumar’s claims.PWD minister Satish Jarkiholi said people from North India, allegedly linked to a private agency, had tried to trap the CM. “When rasgulla, Maddur vada and Mulbagal dosa are served, one ought to be careful. Such things are natural in politics,” he said.BJP state president BY Vijayendra hit back, saying Congress had a history of such operations. He cited the case of BJP MLA Ramesh Jarkiholi, who was allegedly honey-trapped.