Priyank Kharge rules out CBI probe into alleged sting operation, says Karnataka police will investigate

Priyank Kharge | Photo Credit: -

Home Minister Priyank Kharge on Wednesday (October 14, 2026) ruled out a CBI probe into the alleged sting operation, asserting that the Karnataka Police were capable of investigating the matter.

In his reaction to Union Minister and JD(S) leader H.D. Kumaraswamy’s allegations that the sting operation was part of a conspiracy to tarnish the reputation of former Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and could be linked to attempts to force him out of office, Mr. Kharge said the State police would investigate the alleged sting operation and identify those responsible.

On Mr. Kumaraswamy’s demand for a CBI inquiry, Mr. Kharge questioned the need for a central agency to investigate the matter and asked, “Why is a CBI inquiry needed in this case? What is the cause of action?”

He claimed that the CBI had yet to complete two or three cases entrusted to it and was seeking personnel from the State to carry out the investigations. The Karnataka Police, he said, were capable of handling the case and ensuring that the truth emerged in accordance with the law. “This is also part of a conspiracy to tarnish the reputation of Siddaramaiah,” Mr Kharge told reporters here.