Ballari banner clash row intensifies as Gali Janardhana Reddy accuses police officers, Congress MLA

Ballari :The controversy surrounding the banner-related violence in Ballari district has taken a sharp political turn, with Gangavati MLA Gali Janardhana Reddy openly accusing senior police officers of being directly responsible for the unrest. Expressing strong displeasure over police action, Reddy has alleged a deliberate attempt to shield the accused and suppress his complaint, triggering intense debate in political and administrative circles.

The incident dates back to January 1, when tensions reportedly erupted near Reddy’s residence over the installation of a banner. According to Reddy, the dispute quickly escalated into a violent clash involving stone-pelting, petrol bomb attacks and even gunfire. Claiming that the violence was not spontaneous, he alleged that there was a larger conspiracy to assassinate him during the incident.

Following the incident, Reddy filed a formal complaint at the Brucepet police station on January 6, naming Ballari Assistant Superintendent of Police Ravikumar, Deputy Superintendent of Police Chandrakant Nandareddy and Congress MLA Nara Bharat Reddy. In his complaint, Reddy accused the officials of gross dereliction of duty and alleged that police inaction and bias directly contributed to the violence.

However, Reddy has now expressed strong anger after police issued an endorsement instead of registering an FIR based on his complaint. He alleged that despite making serious and specific accusations, the police deliberately avoided registering a fresh case. “The complaint I gave and the endorsement issued by police are completely different. Instead of registering a case against the accused, officers are backing out under pressure,” Reddy alleged.

In their endorsement, police stated that a case related to the banner violence had already been registered and that Reddy’s complaint would be treated as additional information linked to the existing case. Officials clarified that the contents of his complaint would be examined during the course of investigation and necessary action would be taken if evidence emerged.

Unconvinced by the explanation, Reddy alleged that the investigation was being derailed due to political interference and pressure from influential quarters. He claimed that senior officers were acting in a partisan manner and failing to ensure impartial justice. His remarks have further intensified the political atmosphere in Ballari, where the incident has already drawn statewide attention.

The controversy has gained further traction in the wake of recent administrative changes, including the transfer of DIGP Varthika Katiyar and the appointment of a new Superintendent of Police in Ballari district. Political observers say these developments have added another layer of complexity to an already sensitive situation.

With allegations flying thick and fast, the banner clash case has now become a flashpoint in Ballari politics, raising questions about police accountability, political influence and law and order management. As investigations continue, public attention remains focused on whether authorities will order an independent probe or take further steps to address the serious accusations raised by the Gangavati MLA.