A political bombshell rocked Karnataka on Thursday as Cooperation Minister K.N. Rajanna claimed in the state Assembly that 48 politicians, including state and national leaders across party lines, have been ensnared in honey-trapping schemes, with compromising videos in the hands of perpetrators.

The explosive allegation, made during a budget session debate, has triggered a high-level investigation ordered by Home Minister G. Parameshwara, who called it a “serious issue” threatening the dignity of public representatives.

The controversy erupted when BJP MLA Basanagouda Patil Yatnal raised concerns about a honey-trapping racket targeting legislators, hinting at ambitions tied to the chief minister’s post.

Rajanna, responding, not only confirmed the rumors but admitted an attempt had been made on him too, vowing to file a complaint with evidence. “This isn’t just a state issue—it extends nationally,” he said, alleging a widespread conspiracy. BJP MLA Munirathna further accused Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar of masterminding such traps, citing past incidents involving legislators like Ramesh Jarkiholi and H.D. Revanna.

The Karnataka government, under pressure, pledged swift action. Parameshwara announced the probe hours after Public Works Minister Satish Jarkiholi revealed two failed honey-trap attempts on senior ministers.

Posts on X and local reports reflect growing public outrage, with some demanding a CBI inquiry into what’s being dubbed a “CD factory” scandal. As the Congress-led state navigates internal rifts and opposition fire, the investigation’s outcome could reshape Karnataka’s political landscape, exposing a murky underbelly of blackmail and power plays.