KOLLAM: A clash broke out in the middle of the road between the activists of Youth Congress and DYFI on Tuesday. The clash broke out when the DYFI activists stopped the youth congress from waving black flags at the chief minister. Both sides clashed in Kalaripayattu style this morning at Jarom Nagar near Chinnakada. When they clashed with sticks, the police stood as spectators, unable to do anything. Finally, it eased after a long time.

The youth congress came to show black flags at Nava Kerala bus going to Karunagappally. More police were deployed as there was information that DYFIs would arrive to stop them. The conflict was as soon as the Nava Kerala bus left. Both sides clashed with sticks and tube lights. When they could not bear the beating, some ran to a nearby hotel to escape. They were also beaten up. Reports said some hurled stones at the hotel. People scattered as the blow was heavy. Some locals were also beaten.

The police, who initially did not move despite seeing the beating, intervened when it became clear that things were going out of hand. Some on both sides were caught. Both sides sustained injuries in the clash. Some people were bleeding from their heads. Youth Congress workers also used pepper spray at the DYFI activists.