Clash breaks out between Youth Congress and DYFI in Manarcad after by-election result; many injured

KOTTAYAM: A clash broke out between the activists of Youth Congress workers and DYFI in Manarcad soon after the Puthuppally by-election result was announced. Police resorted to a lathi charge as both groups continued to fight each other without backing down. According to reports, activists from both sides sustained injuries during the clash and lathi charge. The clash broke out in front of the CPM party office in Manarcad.

Congress is alleging that the CPM attempted to attack the houses of Youth Congress activists. However, DYFI activists are claiming that Youth Congress members were the ones who attacked them first. The conflict escalated as the activists of both sides attacked each other's houses. Youth Congress leaders such as Shafi Parambil, VT Balram, Rahul Mamkootathil, and others have reached the place. Shafi Parambil said that the CPM workers were causing trouble without any provocation.

More police, including the district police chief, have reached the spot as the conflict has not subsided. The police are now trying to defuse the conflict by dispersing both sides.