Karnataka political tensions rise over sting operation and electoral roll disputes

Political tensions are escalating in Karnataka involving multiple controversies. Union Minister H. D. Kumaraswamy of the Janata Dal (Secular) staged a dharna outside the Bengaluru Police Commissioner’s office, demanding a probe into an alleged sting operation targeting former Chief Minister Siddaramaiah. Kumaraswamy accused the state government of protecting those involved while targeting JD(S) workers and questioned the legality of recent arrests.

Simultaneously, the Supreme Court of India has issued notices to the Election Commission and the Chief Election Commissioner following a plea by Rahul Gandhi and other INDIA bloc leaders. The petition alleges irregularities and large-scale voter deletions during the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. The court also addressed the conduct of petitioners who marched to the apex court.

In a separate development, BJP leaders have criticized Rahul Gandhi for his alleged physical conduct toward Chief Minister D. K. Shivakumar, calling it an insult to the state. Additionally, BJP leader R. Ashoka has urged Gandhi to visit drought-stricken areas in Karnataka, questioning the adequacy of the state's ₹2,500 relief installment for farmers facing significant crop losses.