Mohan Kuthar

Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru (DRD)

Mangaluru, May 7: Chaos ensued during a rickshaw and bike rally organized by the SDPI from Ullala Abbakka Circle to Deralkatte as the driver of the Congress election campaign vehicle was assaulted near Natekal under the jurisdiction of Konaje police station.

The victim, identified as Naufal (35), a Congress worker, was assaulted during the incident. The Congress campaign vehicle, en route to the Chembugudde public meeting from Asaigoli near Natekal, encountered the SDPI rally near Natekal. The bike and rickshaw rally organized by SDPI workers caused traffic obstruction on the road. In response, a pro-Congress song was played from the election campaign vehicle, which the SDPI workers objected to and requested it to be stopped. However, the driver, without consideration, began honking at individuals crossing the vehicle. This action enraged the SDPI workers, leading them to confront and assault the driver, Naufal, on the cheek.

Congress workers have also alleged the theft of an iPhone mobile device during the altercation. Naufal, who sustained injuries, has been admitted to Natechal Kanachur Hospital. As news of the incident spread, Congress workers gathered near Derlakatta and demanded the arrest of the assailants.

A complaint has been lodged at Konaje Police Station, prompting heightened police presence at the SDPI public meeting in Derlakatte. DCP Anshu Kumar IPS, B P Dinesh Kumar, ACP Dhanya N Naik, and the police personnel from Ullala and Konaje police stations have cordoned off the area to ensure security and maintain order.