The Karnataka government on Thursday firmly ruled out transferring the investigation into the violent clashes in Ballari to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), asserting that the state police are fully equipped to handle the case. The decision comes amid demands from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) for a CBI probe into the incident, which resulted in the death of a Congress worker and drew national attention.

State Home Minister G. Parameshwara explained that the cabinet had taken a policy decision not to hand over such cases to the CBI, emphasizing that the Karnataka Police has the capability to manage investigations efficiently. “Our police are capable of handling any situation. If a situation arises where the police are unable to investigate, we will then consider handing over the case to the CBI. However, the Cabinet had earlier decided that no such cases would be handed over to the CBI,” he said.

Parameshwara further noted that CBI involvement would only be considered under exceptional circumstances, such as a court order or any other compelling reason. “We have taken a decision in this regard, and at present there is no necessity to hand over the case,” he added, reinforcing the government’s stance on maintaining state jurisdiction over law and order matters.

The Ballari violence erupted after a banner was installed in front of the residence of BJP legislator Gali Janardhana Reddy, commemorating a statue of Maharshi Valmiki. The situation escalated into a violent confrontation, culminating in the shooting death of Congress worker Rajashekar. Police have arrested 26 individuals from both Congress and BJP in connection with the clashes, while notices have been issued to more than 30 Congress workers. In total, the Brucepet police, leading the investigation, have served notices on 107 individuals, several of whom are reported to be absconding.

As part of the ongoing inquiry, officials have indicated that notices may also be issued to Congress legislator Nara Bharath Reddy, BJP leader Gali Janardhana Reddy, and former minister B. Sriramulu. Investigators are actively working to gather evidence and question all involved parties to ensure accountability.

In response to the unrest and national scrutiny, the state government on Wednesday reshuffled senior police leadershipin Ballari. Vartika Katiyar was transferred from her post as Deputy Inspector General of the Ballari Division, and P.S. Harsha was appointed as Inspector General of Police. Additionally, Sumana Pannekar was named Superintendent of Police, replacing Pavan Nejjur, who was suspended on the day he assumed charge following the violence. These changes reflect the government’s effort to stabilize the situation and strengthen law enforcement oversight in the district.

Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar highlighted findings from a Congress fact-finding committee, which concluded that the violence was triggered by the removal of a banner related to the Maharshi Valmiki statue. Speaking at a press conference, he said, “The decision of the local leaders to erect a statue of Maharshi Valmiki was right. The people of the district welcomed the statue into Ballari with celebrations from December 24 to 29. A banner was installed on January 1 about the Valmiki statue.”

Shivakumar emphasized that any objections regarding the statue or associated banners should have been addressed through official channels. “If Janardhana Reddy or Sriramulu had any objections to Valmiki or the community, they should have raised them through official channels,” he added, urging political leaders to avoid taking the law into their own hands.

The state government’s firm refusal to hand over the investigation to the CBI underscores its confidence in the Karnataka Police’s ability to conduct a fair and comprehensive inquiry. Officials stressed that the police are equipped to investigate crimes impartially, including politically sensitive incidents such as the Ballari clashes.

Observers note that the decision also reflects the state government’s preference to retain control over law and order matters, especially in a politically charged environment where multiple parties are involved. By keeping the investigation within the state, the government aims to ensure continuity and avoid delays that could arise from transferring the case to a central agency.

The Ballari incident has drawn widespread attention due to the political and communal undertones of the clashes. The BJP has alleged bias in the investigation and demanded a CBI probe to ensure impartiality, while the Congress-led state administration has consistently defended the credibility and capability of the state police.

Meanwhile, police efforts continue to trace absconding suspects and compile evidence against those involved in the clashes. Authorities are reviewing CCTV footage, statements, and other material to establish the sequence of events that led to the violent confrontation. The investigation aims to hold accountable anyone found responsible for the escalation and fatalities.

In conclusion, the Karnataka government has made it clear that there will be no CBI involvement in the Ballari clashes investigation at this time. By reaffirming its confidence in the state police and outlining the policy framework for CBI referrals, the administration has sought to assure the public that justice will be delivered through state mechanisms, while reserving the option to involve the CBI under exceptional circumstances.