BENGALURU: The Central Crime Branch (CCB) has intensified its investigation into a viral video case following a complaint by former Chief Minister Siddaramaiah over an alleged sting operation aimed at tarnishing his image. A JD(S) worker, Shankar, has reportedly been detained for questioning.
Union Minister and JD(S) leader H.D. Kumaraswamy has strongly criticised the police action, alleging that young members of the party’s social media team are being targeted for raising questions about a suspected honey-trap conspiracy involving senior Congress leaders.
In a post on X, Kumaraswamy claimed that Shankar was taken away by the police without a formal case being registered against him. He also alleged that another social media team member, Mohan, and his family were being harassed.
“I will not be intimidated for raising questions about the suspected honey-trap plot involving senior Congress leaders. Instead of answering serious questions, the government appears to be targeting young members of our JD(S) social media team,” he said.
Kumaraswamy questioned why the person allegedly involved in conducting the sting operation to damage Siddaramaiah’s reputation was not facing similar scrutiny, while those raising questions about the episode were being pursued. He said the situation raised concerns about the government’s priorities.
Kumaraswamy reiterated his demand for a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe, insisting that the truth should emerge through a fair and impartial investigation rather than pressure on party workers and their families.
“If the government has the courage to respond, let it answer the questions I have raised. We will confront any unjust harassment through both legal and political means,” he warned.
