In a Cabinet session on Oct. 8, Shivakumar warned ministers that sting operations could be used to "trap" them, claiming he has proof and has been targeted since taking office. He said he knows who runs the scheme, but declined to name names.
The following day, Congress MLA Ravikumar Ganiga presented a pen drive to the media, alleging that a Union minister—identified only as a "Union minister and Karnataka BJP leader"—was funneling funds into the sting. He said he would release the documents in a week.
Opposition leaders, led by JD(S) chief HD Kumaraswamy, seized on the claim. Kumaraswamy accused the government of failing to act, demanding an inquiry into who is behind the alleged plot and why no investigation has been ordered. Former Chief Minister Siddaramaiah also called for a probe.
Shivakumar, however, dismissed the accusations, saying "time will answer" and that the state had not yet decided to launch a probe. Public Works Minister Satish Jarkiholi countered that the CM had not confirmed any sting had occurred and that ministers should stay alert.
BJP State Chief BY Vijayendra branded the episode a "low point in Karnataka politics" and warned that those involved would face consequences, but said the truth would emerge in the coming days.
The Karnataka Assembly will consider the opposition’s call for an investigation in the next session, expected to be held on Oct. 15.