In a significant political development, Union Minister of State for Railways, V Somanna, paid a visit to the residence of former minister and mining baron Gali Janardhana Reddy in Ballari on Sunday. The visit, which came in the wake of a recent violent clash in the city, was marked by strong criticism of the Congress-led state government and a demand for enhanced security for Reddy.
Minister Condemns Clash, Demands High-Level Probe
Addressing a press conference, Somanna did not mince words in his condemnation of the Ballari incident. He expressed deep concern over the safety of Janardhana Reddy and his family, stating he had never witnessed such a tragedy in his 45-year political career. An innocent young man lost his life in what he described as a targeted shooting aimed at Reddy.
Somanna insisted that if Chief Minister Siddaramaiah had any morality, he would take immediate action. He accused the state administration of serious misconduct and incompetence. The Union Minister challenged the state government's application of the Hate Speech Bill, questioning why certain individuals were not apprehended under it. He specifically mentioned the language used by MLA Bharat Reddy, asking which institution taught him to speak in such a manner.
Call for CBI Investigation and Central Security
Somanna made a firm demand for the investigation into the clash to be transferred to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) or to a sitting judge. He also urged Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar to refrain from being part of what he termed "sinful activities."
Highlighting the perceived failure of the state administration, Somanna declared that the government must ensure adequate protection for Janardhana Reddy. He issued a warning that if the state failed to provide security, discussions would be initiated with the Union Home Minister to arrange Z-category security for the former minister.
Political Gathering and Allegations Against Congress
The visit was attended by a host of prominent BJP functionaries, including B Sriramulu, former MLAs Somashekar Reddy, Suresh Babu, Somalingappa, and former MP Sanna Fakirappa. This show of strength underscored the political significance of the event.
Somanna launched a sharp attack on the ruling Congress party. He alleged that Congress leaders tried to send a negative message to the citizens on New Year's Day. He accused them of engaging in sinful activities under the guise of honouring Saint Valmiki, the author of the Ramayana, and warned that they would not escape the consequences of their actions.
The minister's visit and his strong statements have escalated the political tension in Ballari, setting the stage for a major confrontation between the state BJP and the ruling Congress government over law and order and political vendetta.
