Bengaluru, 19 Oct (H.S.): Union Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy has threatened statewide protests outside police stations if the Karnataka government fails to arrest the alleged masterminds behind a controversial sting operation before Vijayadashami.

Escalating his confrontation with the government, the Janata Dal (Secular) leader said the party would launch a satyagraha across Karnataka if the authorities failed to act within the deadline. Protests would be organised outside every police station, with party units preparing to mobilise supporters in all Assembly constituencies, he said.

The warning follows demonstrations led by Kumaraswamy near the Bengaluru City Police Commissioner’s office. He subsequently marched to the office of the Director General and Inspector General of Police, demanding action against those allegedly responsible for the operation.

The controversy centres on video clips linked to a sting operation allegedly targeting former Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and other ministers. Kumaraswamy and JD(S) leaders have alleged that Rakesh Shetty was the principal organiser and accused Bagepalli Prashanth and Congress leader Kripa Alva of involvement.

These accusations remain allegations, and the account provided does not establish the culpability of any of those named.

Kumaraswamy also directed his criticism at Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, accusing him of providing protection to the person behind the sting operation. He alleged that Shivakumar had held secret meetings with the individual and described the Chief Minister as the “father” of the alleged political conspiracy.

The Union Minister said the proposed agitation was intended to press the government to take the allegations seriously and ensure action against those responsible.

By announcing protests across all constituencies, the JD(S) is seeking to widen its campaign beyond Bengaluru and increase pressure on the administration.

The supplied account did not include a response from Shivakumar, the other individuals named, or police on the allegations, the investigation’s progress, or the demand for arrests before the festival deadline.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman