The Congress-led government in Karnataka has named a new Inspector General of Police (IGP) and Superintendent of Police (SP) for Ballari, a region recently embroiled in violence. Vartika Katiyar, the Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of Ballari Division, has been replaced by IGP P.S. Harsha. Katiyar has been reassigned as the DIG of the Directorate of Civil Rights Enforcement (DCRE).
Sumana Pannekar has been appointed as the new Superintendent of Police (SP) of Ballari, succeeding Pavan Nejjur who was suspended for negligence. Nejjur faced criticism for not visiting the site of the violence promptly. The government emphasized the importance of immediate action during such incidents.
Following the transfer, a clash erupted between BJP and Congress supporters at a party held by senior police officers. The altercation occurred as only two constables were present at the scene initially. The situation escalated before more officers could intervene.
Allegations have emerged from both sides regarding the handling of the case. BJP members accused the government of pressuring the family of the deceased Congress worker to cremate the body hastily. Congress, on the other hand, released a photo suggesting gunfire from the residence of BJP MLA Gali Janardhana Reddy. An investigation has been initiated into the incident.
The violence in Ballari originated from a confrontation between Congress and BJP workers over a banner issue. A fatal shooting led to the death of a Congress worker, sparking further tensions. The situation has since become politically charged, with ongoing arrests and judicial proceedings.
