Sun Jan 04 14:23:55 UTC 2026: Okay, here’s a summary and a rewritten news article based on the provided text:

Summary:

Following a clash in Ballari that resulted in the death of a Congress activist, the BJP is escalating its criticism of the Congress-led government. The BJP alleges a breakdown of law and order and accuses the government of attempting to murder Gangavati MLA G. Janardhana Reddy. They are demanding a high-level investigation into the incident, either by a sitting High Court judge or the CBI. The BJP is planning a protest in Bengaluru and will submit a memorandum to the Governor. They also criticize the conduct of a Ballari MLA and the suspension of the district Superintendent of Police, suggesting the government is shielding those truly responsible. A Union Minister has also weighed in, warning of potential central intervention if the state government fails to act decisively.

News Article:

BJP Demands Probe into Ballari Clash, Alleges “Goonda Raj” Under Congress Rule

Bengaluru, January 4, 2026 – The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is mounting pressure on the Congress government in Karnataka following a violent clash in Ballari that led to the death of a Congress activist. The BJP is alleging a complete breakdown of law and order and accusing the state government of fostering a “goonda raj.”

Following a meeting with Gangavati MLA G. Janardhana Reddy at his Ballari residence, Leader of the Opposition in the Legislative Assembly R. Ashok announced a large-scale protest in Bengaluru on Monday. The party plans to submit a memorandum to the Governor, demanding a high-level probe into the incident, potentially led by a sitting High Court judge or the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).

“Despite overwhelming evidence, the government has failed to provide clarity on the events that transpired. The fact-finding panel constituted by the government is nothing more than a cover-up,” Ashok stated to reporters.

Leader of the Opposition in the Legislative Council Chalavadi Narayanaswamy echoed these sentiments, criticizing Ballari MLA Nara Bharath Reddy for allegedly provoking violence and demanding his immediate suspension. He also questioned the selective suspension of officials, suggesting that senior officers who facilitated the mobilization of people were being protected.

Adding further weight to the BJP’s stance, Union Minister of State for Railways V. Somanna met separately with Janardhana Reddy. He condemned the banner-related violence, stating that it had sent a “wrong message” at the start of the New Year and that the government must ensure adequate security to G. Janardhana Reddy. Somanna warned that the central government may be compelled to intervene if the state government fails to take decisive action. The BJP’s aggressive stance signals a potential escalation of political tensions in the state.

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