Political sparks fly as model house linked to Janardhana Reddy, Sriramulu gutted

Ballari: Amid heightened political tension following a banner clash and the shooting death of a Congress worker, a model house linked to MLA Gali Janardhana Reddy and former minister B Sriramulu caught fire on Friday evening in the city, triggering fresh controversy.The incident occurred at G Square Layout, a 109-acre residential layout in the city, registered in the names of Gali Janardhana Reddy and Sriramulu. The model house, constructed around 13–14 years ago to showcase the project to prospective buyers, was allegedly set ablaze around 6.30pm.Former MLA Gali Somashekara Reddy, brother of Gali Janardhana Reddy, alleged that petrol and diesel were poured on the building before it was set on fire. He claimed the act was deliberate and accused supporters of Congress MLA Nara Bharat Reddy for being behind the incident.Referring to the recent banner clash, Somashekara Reddy said that the fire is proof that the incident was not accidental, and claimed that attempts were made to apprehend those involved, but they managed to flee. He said a formal complaint would be lodged with the police.Senior police officials rushed to the spot and inspected the site. According to police sources, one person was detained in connection with the incident and is currently being questioned.MLA Gali Janardhana Reddy, who is attending the special session of the legislature, reacted to the incident, stating that the fire occurred within weeks of the banner clash. He said, he spoke to the Ballari SP, who assured him that efforts were underway to identify those responsible.The incident is being viewed as a development that could further intensify the ongoing political conflict in Ballari.