Ballari violence: Janardhana Reddy claims life threats, demands enhanced security

Former Karnataka minister and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MLA G. Janardhana Reddy has claimed that he is facing serious threats to his life and has sought Z+ category security, alleging that the recent violent clash outside his residence in Ballari was a pre-planned attempt to assassinate him.

Citing escalating security concerns following the incident, Reddy has written separate representations to Union Home Minister Amit Shah , Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah , State Home Minister G. Parameshwara , and Director General of Police Alok Mohan , requesting enhanced protection.

In his letter, Reddy alleged that Congress MLA Nara Bharath Reddy was behind the threats to his life. He claimed that the violence that erupted outside his residence was not spontaneous but a “well-orchestrated attack” aimed at eliminating him amid heightened political rivalry in the district.

The threats, according to Reddy, stem from tensions linked to local political events and disputes over the installation of banners for a January 3 programme to unveil a statue of sage Valmiki. The disagreement allegedly escalated into a violent confrontation involving supporters of both leaders.

On Thursday night, supporters of Congress MLA Nara Bharath Reddy and BJP MLA G. Janardhana Reddy clashed outside the latter’s residence in Ballari. The confrontation turned violent with hand-to-hand combat, stone-pelting and firing reported, forcing police to resort to a lathi-charge to disperse the crowd. One person was killed in the incident.

The Karnataka police later seized five firearms that were allegedly used during the violence. Additional Director General of Police (Law and Order) R. Hithendra said the weapons were recovered from five private gunmen present at the scene.

Chief Minister Siddaramaiah said an enquiry has been ordered into the clash, while Home Minister G. Parameshwara also confirmed that a probe has been initiated to ascertain the sequence of events and fix responsibility.

Police sources said Reddy’s complaint seeking Z+ security is under review and that a decision will be taken after assessing the threat perception. There has been no official response so far from the Congress MLA named in the allegations or from the state government regarding the security demand.

Authorities have maintained that all aspects of the incident, including the use of firearms and the circumstances leading to the death, are being thoroughly investigated.