BJP leader B Sriramulu continued criticizing Gangavathi MLA Gali Janardhana Reddy during a press conference on Thursday, calling him an “expert at lying.”
Sriramulu accused him of wanting to be seen as the sole leader in Ballari. “He accused me of having a criminal background, but I have evidence of his criminal activities. When the time is right, I will expose the truth with documents,” he said.
Sriramulu publicly attacked Reddy, expressing his dissatisfaction with the BJP. Following his remarks, party national president JP Nadda urged him to visit New Delhi immediately. Sriramulu declined and stated he would meet Nadda next week.
The rift reportedly began after state BJP in-charge Radha Mohan Das Agarwal criticized Sriramulu’s lack of involvement, linking it to the party’s defeat in the Sandur bypoll.
Sriramulu claimed that Reddy often downplayed his role in their political success, saying, “Reddy has built a fortress of lies, forgetting my contributions. I come from a grassroots political family, while he uses others for his gain.”
He also recalled how, four months ago, after being allowed to enter Ballari by the Supreme Court, Reddy claimed credit for BJP’s first victory in the state and Narendra Modi becoming Prime Minister. Sriramulu accused him of distorting the truth and making disparaging remarks about his health.
Addressing speculation about Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar attempting to persuade him to join Congress, Sriramulu dismissed the idea. “Jarkiholi is the Congress leader. How can I grow like him in their party?” he said.
While asserting no plans to leave the BJP, Sriramulu hinted that the actions of senior leaders would influence his next steps.