Ballari, Karnataka – January 2, 2026 – Security has been significantly tightened in Ballari following clashes between supporters of BJP MLA Gali Janardhana Reddy and Congress MLA Nara Bharath Reddy over the installation of political banners, police officials said on Friday. The confrontation, which occurred on Thursday, resulted in the death of one person and raised fears of further unrest in the region.

According to authorities, the clash erupted when supporters of Bharath Reddy attempted to put up banners in front of Janardhana Reddy’s residence in the Avambhavi area. This effort was strongly opposed by Janardhana Reddy’s supporters, triggering a heated verbal exchange that soon escalated into physical violence.

Videos circulating on social media reportedly show a private gunman firing shots into the air, highlighting the tense atmosphere that gripped the area during the altercation. In addition to gunfire, supporters from both sides allegedly resorted to stone-pelting, and several people, including police personnel, sustained injuries. The identities and exact number of injured are still being verified by authorities.

The incident occurred a day before a Valmiki statue unveiling programme scheduled for January 3, which added to the sensitivity of the situation. Police were forced to take stringent measures to contain the violence, including lathi chargesand firing warning shots into the air to disperse the crowd and restore order.

A senior police officer confirmed that the situation has been brought under control and that additional security forceshave been deployed to prevent any further disturbances. “At present, the situation remains peaceful, and all precautionary measures have been taken to ensure that no untoward incident occurs,” the officer said.

The confrontation has also drawn attention to the potential for political rivalries to escalate into violence in the region. Supporters of both MLAs were reportedly involved in coordinated mobilization, heightening tensions and creating a volatile environment that required immediate law enforcement intervention.

Authorities have launched a thorough investigation to ascertain the sequence of events, identify those responsible for the violence, and verify claims made by both sides. Police officials said that inquiries will include reviewing video footage, questioning witnesses, and examining the circumstances that led to the fatality.

The Ballari incident is part of a larger pattern of political clashes in Karnataka, where rival parties often engage in confrontations over local events, including festivals, public gatherings, and statue installations. This incident underscores the importance of preemptive security planning, particularly in areas with a history of politically motivated unrest.

Residents in the Avambhavi area expressed relief at the heightened security presence, noting that visible police deployment helped restore a sense of normalcy following the violent clash. Several community leaders also called for calm and urged political parties to resolve differences through dialogue rather than confrontation, especially in sensitive areas ahead of public events.

Police officials emphasized that the deployment of additional personnel and monitoring measures will continue until authorities are confident that tensions have fully subsided. Law enforcement agencies are also coordinating with local administration to ensure that any attempts to reignite conflict are swiftly addressed.

The incident has attracted attention at both state and national levels, with political analysts observing that the clash may influence upcoming local and regional events. Observers note that preemptive conflict management and rapid response by police were critical in preventing the situation from escalating further.

Authorities have assured the public that strict legal action will be taken against anyone found culpable in the violence. Investigators are examining all aspects of the incident, including the role of private security personnel, mobilization of party supporters, and the management of public spaces during political events.

As Ballari prepares for the Valmiki Jayanti celebrations, the administration is maintaining high alert, with law enforcement officers strategically deployed around key areas to prevent any recurrence of violence. Officials have also urged citizens to cooperate with authorities and report any suspicious activities that may threaten public safety.

In conclusion, the Ballari incident highlights the delicate balance between political activity and public safety in Karnataka. While the immediate situation has been contained, authorities remain vigilant to ensure that political rivalries do not disrupt civic life or endanger residents.

The investigation into Thursday’s clash continues, and further updates are expected as police verify evidence and determine the circumstances that led to the tragic death and subsequent unrest in the region.