Call for CBI Investigation into Violence Over Maharishi Valmiki Poster Incident
Demand for CBI Inquiry
On Monday, Union Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy urged for a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the violence that erupted outside the residence of BJP legislator G. Janardhan Reddy in Ballari. This incident followed a controversy surrounding the display of posters related to Maharishi Valmiki. Kumaraswamy emphasized that the Karnataka government had not authorized the installation of any statue, which was the reason for the posters being put up.
Government Accountability Questioned
Kumaraswamy criticized the government for allowing the statue installation that sparked the poster controversy, holding it responsible for the death of a Congress supporter. He stated, "The CBI should investigate the Ballari incident... The cause of this event is the statue installation program for Maharishi Valmiki. I read in the newspapers today that the government did not grant permission for any statue installation. The Supreme Court has ordered that no statues should be erected, and there is also a state law prohibiting the installation of any statue without permission."
Raising Questions on State Government's Role
He further questioned the role of the state government in this incident, asking, "I am inquiring with the Chief Minister, if the government granted permission for the statue installation on January 3, then it is the government's responsibility to provide an answer; if permission was not granted, who went ahead with the installation? Everyone holds Maharishi Valmiki in high regard."
Violence and Its Aftermath
The violence that occurred involved clashes between supporters of Congress MLA Nara Bharath Reddy and BJP MLA G. Janardhan Reddy, resulting in the death of Congress worker Rajshekhar. Kumaraswamy pointed out that the incident began with the hoisting of a flag, which ultimately led to the tragic outcome of a Congress worker's death.
Political Accusations and Future Implications
Kumaraswamy also directed his criticism towards the Congress party, asserting that this is the last time they will have a Chief Minister in Karnataka. He remarked, "Remember this and write it down. You are the last Chief Minister of Congress in Karnataka; you have made your officials subservient. You claim that you will return to power in 2028; come and show us."
Investigation Developments
The incident has drawn significant attention, with the Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar stating that a fact-finding committee chaired by former state minister H.M. Revanna has gathered crucial information regarding the violence in Ballari. The state government is considering handing over the case to the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) for further investigation.