In the latest development in the January 1 Ballari clashes that killed Congress worker Rajashekar amid a banner dispute over a Maharshi Valmiki statue, the Karnataka government has rejected BJP demands for a CBI probe. Home Minister G. Parameshwara voiced confidence in state police, while arrests and notices target leaders from both Congress and BJP, alongside a police reshuffle.
Building on the violence outside BJP MLA Gali Janardhana Reddy's residence—initially covered with details on the fatality from a private gun, opposition cover-up claims, and proposed firearm curbs—the state Cabinet on Thursday firmly declined to transfer the investigation to the CBI.
'Our police are capable of handling any situation,' Parameshwara said. 'We will consider CBI only if police are unable, as per exceptional cases like court orders.'
Police have arrested 26 from both parties, summoned 107 individuals (several absconding), and prepared notices for Congress MLA Nara Bharath Reddy, BJP's Janardhana Reddy, and former minister B. Sriramulu.
The government also reshuffled Ballari's senior police: Deputy IG Vartika Katiyar transferred, P.S. Harsha as new IG, Sumana Pannekar as SP replacing suspended Pavan Nejjur.
Deputy CM D.K. Shivakumar cited a Congress fact-finding report blaming the violence on banner removal: 'Local leaders rightly decided on the Valmiki statue, celebrated December 24-29, with a January 1 banner. Raise objections officially if any from Reddy or Sriramulu.'
