Fri Jan 23 16:43:06 UTC 2026: ### Political Arson Inflames Tensions in Ballari Following Deadly Clash

The Story:
Tensions in Ballari remain high following a violent clash earlier this month. On January 23, 2026, unidentified individuals set fire to a model house in a private residential layout owned by Gangavati MLA Gali Janardhan Reddy and his close associate B. Sriramulu. The incident occurred at the G Square Layout on Bellary-Belagallu Road. No injuries were reported as the structure was unoccupied. Former MLA G. Somasekhar Reddy, brother of Janardhan Reddy, has accused Congress workers of arson, citing prior threats made during the January 1 clash.

Key Points:

  • Arson occurred on January 23, 2026, at the G Square Layout, a residential project.
  • The target was a model house owned by Gali Janardhan Reddy and B. Sriramulu.
  • The structure was unoccupied, and no injuries were reported.
  • G. Somasekhar Reddy alleges Congress workers are responsible, referencing threats from a previous clash on January 1.
  • The January 1 clash resulted in the death of a Congress activist.
  • Police are investigating and have not yet received a formal complaint.
  • The Superintendent of Police Suman D. Pennekar confirmed the incident

Key Takeaways:

  • The arson incident is likely a direct consequence of the heightened political tensions in Ballari following the deadly clash earlier in January.
  • Accusations are flying between political factions, further escalating the conflict.
  • The police investigation is crucial to establishing facts and preventing further violence.

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