In a dramatic press conference on Tuesday, former minister and senior political leader B Sriramulu made explosive allegations regarding the violent banner dispute and subsequent shooting incident that rocked Ballari city on January 1. He asserted that the events were not accidental but part of a "calculated conspiracy" with a sinister objective.
A Deliberate Plot to Assassinate?
Sriramulu directly claimed that the conflict, which stemmed from a dispute over installing banners, and the shooting that followed were orchestrated with the intent to assassinate his associate and former minister, Gali Janardhana Reddy. "This incident is not a mere accident," Sriramulu stated emphatically. He described a harrowing scene where the bullet was fired dangerously close to Janardhana Reddy, causing panic among supporters who initially feared Sriramulu himself had been shot. "Janardhana Reddy narrowly escaped death," he revealed, underscoring the gravity of the alleged threat.
Government and MLA Accused of Obstructing Justice
The former minister launched a scathing attack on the state government and specifically targeted BJP MLA from Ballari City, Bharat Reddy. Sriramulu branded MLA Bharat Reddy as the primary instigator of the conflict. He questioned the government's commitment to a fair investigation, pointing to a recent meeting between Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Bharat Reddy at the airport.
He further criticized Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar's approach. While acknowledging Shivakumar's visit to offer condolences to the family of the deceased, Rajashekhar, Sriramulu accused him of not probing the root cause. He dismissed the fact-finding committee formed by the DCM as a mere "ploy." "Now, DK Shivakumar will conduct a press conference with the A1 accused seated beside him. Given this situation, will the family of the deceased receive justice?" Sriramulu asked, alleging a government cover-up.
Claims of Self-Defence and a Challenge to Police
Defending the actions of his supporters during the clash, Sriramulu framed their response as one of self-defence. He claimed that Bharat Reddy's group arrived with thousands of supporters and initiated the attack. "Should we remain passive?" he questioned. He admitted his supporters had sticks and could have used chilli powder in anger, but insisted they only reacted to protect themselves when assaulted.
In a bold challenge, Sriramulu declared that if he had committed any offence, the police should arrest him, and he would not seek bail. He concluded with a pointed remark, saying he would wait to see how D.K. Shivakumar delivers justice for the death of Rajashekhar, indicating he would be watching the government's next moves closely.
The allegations have added a highly charged political dimension to the Ballari incident, shifting the narrative from a local clash to one of a potentially premeditated conspiracy at the highest levels of state politics.
