Minister Zameer, MP Thukaram Extend Financial Aid to Ballari Firing Victim’s Family

Ballari: Congress leaders, including Ballari district in-charge minister B Z Zameer Ahmed Khan and MP E Thukaram, visited the residence of Rajashekhar on Saturday, extended financial assistance to the bereaved family and assured them of continued support.

Rajashekhar, a Congress worker, was killed in the firing incident that occurred during a group clash near the residence of Gangavathi MLA Gali Janardhana Reddy on the evening of January 1.

Zameer Ahmed Khan, accompanied by Ballari MLA Nara Bharath Reddy and party leader Ganesh, handed over Rs 25 lakh to Rajashekhar’s mother Tulasi as financial assistance. The minister also assured the family that a job would be provided to Rajashekhar’s brother and sister and that help would be extended for securing a house.

“Rajashekhar was our party worker who lost his life in this tragic incident. I felt deeply saddened after seeing the family’s condition. He was the eldest son who looked after the family. His father has passed away, and his elder sister lost her husband during the Covid pandemic. Rajashekhar was taking care of the entire family,” Zameer told reporters.

He said that he, along with Bharath Reddy and Ganesh, had extended personal financial support to the family. “Whatever support we give is very small and cannot be compared to the loss of a human life. The Congress party will also stand by the family and provide all possible assistance,” he said.

Zameer added that Bharath Reddy had assured employment for Rajashekhar’s brother, while efforts would also be made to provide a job to his sister also. “The family has requested a house, and we will ensure something is done in this regard as well,” he said.

When asked about the total amount of assistance extended, Zameer declined to disclose details. “Even if we give Rs 50 crore, can his life be brought back?” he asked.

Commenting on the banner issue that allegedly triggered the violence, Zameer said the banners were being put up in connection with the unveiling of a Valmiki statue, which he described as a long-standing aspiration of the local people. “This was not a personal programme. If Janardhana Reddy had any objection to the banners, he could have informed Bharath Reddy, who would have immediately had them removed,” he said.

MP E Thukaram, who also visited the family, handed over a cheque for Rs 2 lakh. He assured the family that their requests would be fulfilled and instructed local party leaders to ensure that the family did not face any hardship in the future.