Ballari Violence: Tensions have engulfed the area after a violent clash broke out between two groups in the Awambavi area of Ballari city, last night, allegedly when Congress workers tried to put up a banner ahead of Valmiki statue unvealing event scheduled for Friday. The clash resulted in the death of a 28-year-old Congress worker, Rajashekhar, reported NDTV

The security and preventive measures have been heightened in the area with the deployment of additional forces. The SP Ballari said that they have not imposed Section 144 or other sections at present and are closely ascertaining the situation.

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During the clash, gunshots were heard as supporters of Kalyana Rajya Pragathi Paksha (KRPP) MLA Janardhana Reddy and Congress MLA Bharath Reddy attacked each other, reported NDTV, quoting locals. Bharath Reddy has denied putting up any banner. 

What Happened In Karnataka’s Ballari

- The supporters of KRPP Janardhan Reddy raised objections after Congress leader Bharath Reddy’s supporters allegedly tried to install a banner in front of Janardhana Reddy's house.

- The dispute, which began as a heated argument between the parties, descended into a full-blown violent clash, killing one.

- As the temper flared and the dispute escalated, a close aide of the Congress leader Bharath Reddy, Satish Reddy, rushed to the site; however, it is alleged that one of his gunmen fired two rounds into the air. 

- Former minister and BJP leader B Sriramulu, and Janardhana Reddy's aide, also arrived at the location.

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"The banners have been installed on public streets, just like in other parts of the town. We cannot stop Valmiki community supporters from putting up banners. This event has support that cuts across party lines. But some people do not want Ballari to remain peaceful, and they do not want this Valmiki programme to take place because they know they have done nothing for the Valmiki community whereas we have. This is purely political. He must also take responsibility for the death that has occurred," Bharath Reddy said.