3 injured as party workers clash

Violence during victory celebrations of elections to milk co-operatives

While a Congress candidate was chosen unanimous, eight others were elected to the milk cooperative. A verbal duel ensued between Congress and JD(S) candidates while the supporters of victorious candidates ventured to burst crackers. The duel graduated to a scuffle and both sides resorted to throw stones and bricks, injuring three in the melee, eyewitnesses told Deccan Herlad.

Mild lathicharge

Police personnel who swung into action to bring the unruly mob under control were also not spared from the attack. The situation was brought under control by resorting to mild lathicharge. Twelve people have been taken into custody in connection with the incident.

Karnataka Pradesh Congress Commitee membeer L Gopalakrishna, who was on a visit to the village alleged that the police, at the behest of the local legislator, have assaulted the Congress workers and urged the government to initiate action against police. Congress leader Dimbala Narayanaswamy accused the police of not sparing women and children while caning.

Deputy Superintendent of Police E A Baig told reporters that police have not acted insensitive and people from both sides have been taken to custody.

The injured are admittted to general hospital in the town. Security has been beefed up in the village in view of the clash.