Firing between Congress-Janardhanan Reddy supporters in Karnataka; One died (Photo- PTI)
Digital Desk, Ballari. Political tension reached its peak on New Year's Eve in Karnataka's Ballari city. A clash broke out between supporters of Congress MLA Nara Bharat Reddy and Gangavathi MLA Gali Janardhana Reddy (Kalyana Rajya Pragati Paksha - KRPP) over putting up banners ahead of the Maharishi Valmiki statue unveiling program on January 3. This violent clash resulted in firing, in which one person died.
The incident happened in front of Janardhan Reddy's house
The deceased has been identified as 28-year-old Rajashekhar (resident of Hussain Nagar), who was reportedly a Congress supporter. Rajasekhar was shot and died. The incident took place in front of Janardhan Reddy's house, when Bharat Reddy's supporters allegedly tried to put up banners in front of his house. First there was an argument, then stone pelting and finally sounds of firing were heard.
Accusations and counter-allegations from both sides
Congress MLA Nara Bharat Reddy denied putting up the banners and said, "Banners have been put up on public roads like in other parts of the city. People from the Valmiki community are putting up banners, we cannot stop them. This program is above all parties. Some people do not want peace in Ballari because they have done nothing for the Valmiki community, whereas we have. They have to take responsibility for the deaths."
Janardhan Reddy made serious allegations against Congress
On the other hand, Janardhan Reddy made serious allegations against Congress. Showing a bullet, he said, "As soon as I came to know that I was coming by car, they started firing. The Congress is trying to eliminate me. These are criminals and goons associated with Bharat Reddy."
Reddy accused the Congress MLA of bringing a personal gunman and breaking the law. Former minister and close aide of Janardhana Reddy B. Sriramulu also reached the spot and informed the police.