After the Ballari brawl in which a Congress worker died due to gunfire, Janardhana Reddy expressed fear of a threat to his life.
BENGALURU
BJP MLA Gali Janardhana Reddy has claimed that he and his family face a serious threat to their lives following the recent violent clashes in Ballari and has sought immediate Z-category security. Reddy has written separate letters to Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, State Home Minister G. Parameshwara and Director General and Inspector General of Police Saleem, seeking enhanced protection.
In his letters, Reddy alleged that on January 1, Congress MLA Nara Bharath Reddy and his supporters attacked him and his family during a clash that erupted over the installation of a banner near his residence. He claimed that Bharath Reddy and his associate Satish Reddy attempted to kill him by hurling petrol bombs and firing at him with a gun. “There is a grave threat to my life and the lives of my family members,” Reddy stated, demanding that Z-level security be provided without delay.
The violence broke out after a scuffle over the erection of a banner for an event near Reddy’s house. The situation escalated rapidly, leading to firing during which Congress worker Rajashekhar was killed. The incident has since triggered a political face-off between the ruling Congress and the opposition BJP in the State.
Reddy has maintained that the attack was premeditated and politically motivated, alleging that local police failed to prevent the violence despite prior warnings. He said the circumstances have left his family living in constant fear and uncertainty.
Responding to the development, Home Minister G. Parameshwara said he has not yet received Janardhana Reddy’s letter seeking Z-category security. “If the letter reaches me, appropriate action will be taken,” he said, adding that complaints from both sides are under investigation. He noted that details regarding the alleged use of petrol bombs or firearms would emerge after the probe.
Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar dismissed Reddy’s demand, mocking the request for Z security. Speaking to the media in Bengaluru, he sarcastically remarked that Reddy could even arrange protection from Iran or the United States if he wished, adding that the law would take its own course in the Ballari clash investigation.
