Pic: The FSL and a bomb disposal team inspected the site and the residence of former minister Janardhana Reddy on Monday in BallariBallari: Police intensified the investigation into the banner riot incident in Ballari, and on Monday, the Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) and a bomb disposal team inspected the site and the residence of former minister Janardhana Reddy on Siruguppa Road to examine the alleged use of explosives and trace bullets linked to the firing.The bomb disposal squad from Hubballi visited Reddy’s residence and the incident site and conducted a search using NLJD and DSMD machines. The FSL team collected evidence near the residence and the incident site. During the search operation, the bomb disposal team discovered and seized 2 bullets at a separate location, marked the spot where tear gas fell, and identified where a soda bottle was found.The team also inspected the broken glass in the glasshouse outside Reddy’s office. A search was conducted regarding the use of explosives in the vicinity of Reddy’s residence. The discovery of bullets near the location where MLA Bharat Reddy was residing on the day of the incident sparked discussions.A viral video on social media showed a pile of sticks linked to the banner riot incident at the residence of former minister Gali Janardhana Reddy. Videos circulating also showed Reddy’s supporters holding sticks and engaging in a verbal confrontation with Congress workers. Former minister B Sriramulu alleged that the body of a Congress worker killed by gunfire in the riot case underwent two postmortem examinations. He alleged there was initially an attempt to close the case without conducting a postmortem and plan the funeral without removing the bullet, and that a second post-mortem was conducted later after intense discussions. Police inspector of Brucepete Police Station has requested the public to provide information for further investigation regarding footage recorded during the altercation in front of MLA Janardhana Reddy’s house on Siruguppa Road on Jan 1.The altercation, which occurred between 9pm and 9.20pm on Jan 1, resulted in the murder of Rajasekhar Reddy, and a case was registered at Brucepete Station under case number 01/2026, sections 103(1), 54, 352, 351(2), and Arms Act-1959.The public was urged to share any recorded footage from mobile phones or any other electronic devices via WhatsApp at 9480803045 or by visiting the station in person, as stated in the police inspector’s announcement. In light of the incident, KPCC president and deputy CM DK Shivakumar will visit the city on Jan 6. A meeting was convened at a private hotel in the city to discuss the Jan 1 incident with party workers.
