Ballari: Union minister of state for railways V Somanna visited the residence of Gali Janardhana Reddy on Sunday. He called for security measures for Gali Janardhana Reddy during a press conference. Somanna also criticised the state govt for the clash in Ballari. BJP functionaries, including Janardhana Reddy, B Sriramulu, former MLAs Somashekar Reddy, Suresh Babu, Somalingappa, and former MP Sanna Fakirappa, were present.He said, “Congress leaders attempted to convey a negative message to the citizens of the state on New Year’s Day. They are engaging in sinful activities under the guise of honouring the saint Valmiki, the author of the Ramayana. You will not escape the consequences of this action.”Inquiring about the potential fate of Janardhana Reddy and his family if Sriramulu did not arrive promptly, Somanna voiced his apprehension, stating, “I never witnessed such a tragedy in my 45 years of political experience.”“An innocent young man lost his life in a targeted shooting aimed at Janardhana Reddy. If chief minister Siddaramaiah possesses any sense of morality, he must take swift action,” he insisted.Accusing the state govt of serious misconduct, Somanna remarked, “You turned Dayanand into a victim in the RCB incident. Here, you made the SP a victim. Let MLA Bharat Reddy approach me for political training.” Challenging the validity of the Hate Speech Bill’s enforcement, minister Somanna questioned, “Why were certain individuals not apprehended under that legislation? I heard the language used by Bharat Reddy. Which institution did he attend that he speaks in such a manner?”Demanding that the investigation be transferred to the CBI or a sitting judge, Somanna urged deputy chief minister DK Shivakumar to refrain from participating in such sinful actions.“The administration of the state is ineffective. Therefore, the govt must ensure adequate protection for Janardhana Reddy. Otherwise, discussions will be initiated with the Union home minister, and Z security will be provided,” Somanna concluded.
