D.K. Shivakumar alleges covert operation targeting ministers

Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar said he knew who organized a purported covert operation targeting ministers. H.D. Kumaraswamy demanded evidence and challenged the purpose of the allegation.

Shivakumar spoke outside Karnataka Bhavan in New Delhi on October 8. In its October 9 report, The Hindu said he claimed to know the organizer, financing and methods of the alleged operation. He did not name those involved, saying he would disclose details at the appropriate time.

The chief minister said attempts to target him occurred after he took office. He claimed people had approached him and that he held evidence and photographs. He also said he knew which other leaders were being targeted.

Shivakumar described his warning to ministers and officials as a precaution against entrapment. He said participants in past operations had posed as media personnel and alleged that political leaders had now hired private agents. Those assertions remain his public claims.

Union Minister and JD(S) leader H.D. Kumaraswamy called for the evidence to be disclosed and an investigation if the operation had occurred. He pointed to the SIT, a special investigation team available to the chief minister.

Kumaraswamy separately accused Shivakumar of seeking to divert attention from documents concerning alleged NICE irregularities. He called the issue a political tactic. The dispute does not establish either the covert operation or wrongdoing involving the company as proven facts.