Fri Jan 02 06:37:34 UTC 2026: Summary:

A Congress worker was killed in a clash in Ballari, India, over the installation of banners ahead of a Valmiki statue unveiling. Police have registered a case against Gangavathi MLA and former Minister Gali Janardhan Reddy and 10 others, including his brother and former minister B. Sriramulu, following the violence. Tensions are high, and police have increased security in the city to prevent further clashes.

News Article:

Tensions High in Ballari After Political Clash Leaves One Dead; Janardhan Reddy Named in FIR

Ballari, Karnataka – January 2, 2026 – A tense atmosphere grips Ballari after a Congress worker was killed in clashes that erupted on January 1, 2026. The violence, reportedly triggered by a dispute over the installation of banners for an upcoming Valmiki statue unveiling, has prompted a heavy police presence and an ongoing investigation.

Police have registered a First Information Report (FIR) against Gangavathi MLA and former Minister Gali Janardhan Reddy, along with 10 others. Those named in the FIR include Janardhan Reddy’s brother, Somasekhar Reddy, and former minister B. Sriramulu. The charges leveled against the accused include attempt to murder, rioting, and criminal intimidation under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.

According to the complaint filed by Chanal Shekhar, an associate of Ballari MLA Nara Bharath Reddy, the clashes broke out when banners erected by Congress workers were allegedly forcibly removed near Janardhan Reddy’s residence. The complaint further alleges that Reddy and his supporters assaulted Congress workers, resulting in injuries.

Following the two incidents of violence, police have imposed a strict security blanket across Ballari, particularly around Janardhan Reddy’s residence and sensitive areas like Valmiki Circle. Additional police forces have been deployed from neighboring districts.

MLA Nara Bharath Reddy visited the family of the deceased Congress worker, Rajasekhar, to offer condolences. The investigation into the clashes is ongoing.

Read More