The BJP State unit president B.Y. Vijayendra criticized the Congress over a recent clash in Ballari, alleging "goonda raj" and naming Congress MLA Nara Bharath Reddy as responsible for the violence. Vijayendra claimed Congress supporters used weapons and a private gunman linked to Reddy opened fire. He alleged police inaction due to political pressure and demanded a judicial inquiry into the incident, which occurred during preparations for a Maharshi Valmiki statue installation.