DK Shivakumar alleges sting operation attempt using Meta smart glasses

Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar has claimed that an industrialist attempted to carry out a sting operation against him using Meta smart glasses during a private meeting, prompting the Congress high command to request an official investigation.

Speaking in an interview with Kannada broadcaster Asianet Suvarna News, Shivakumar said the visitor had secured an official appointment under the pretext of discussing business proposals before abruptly steering the discussion towards political affairs, including election booth-level strategy.

Shivakumar said the eyewear worn by the visitor raised his suspicions, leading him to order background checks on the meeting. Officials reviewing the visitor's itinerary found that the industrialist wore the Meta recording glasses during meetings with Shivakumar and Kerala Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan, but removed them when meeting National Democratic Alliance leaders.

Leaders met by the visitor

Shivakumar declined to reveal the identity of the businessman or publish technical logs confirming whether the device captured footage. He maintained that state authorities had already adopted preventive security protocols to protect government business.

"Who said action wasn't sought? You just don't know, that's all. We are not disclosing it, that's all. We have taken all precautionary measures," Shivakumar said, adding that he has maintained records of those involved and would disclose full details when appropriate.

Scrutiny over governance and administration

The episode comes amid wider political friction in Karnataka surrounding leaked recordings linked to former chief minister Siddaramaiah. While opposition leaders, including Union Minister and Janata Dal (Secular) chief H.D. Kumaraswamy, have raised questions regarding political manoeuvres within the state administration, the state government has focused on containing disruptions and ensuring institutional stability.

On October 14, a Bengaluru court granted an interim injunction restraining media and online platforms from circulating disputed clips involving Siddaramaiah, following legal applications to halt defamatory broadcasts. Meanwhile, Congress MLA Ravi Kumar Ganiga alleged that an external agency had been funded to target multiple cabinet ministers.

Shivakumar noted that he has advised cabinet colleagues to remain vigilant against covert entrapment attempts, stressing that the administration must protect official decorum so day-to-day governance and state development can proceed without distraction. The Congress central leadership has instructed the Chief Minister to place the matter under formal administrative review to settle security questions surrounding official meetings.