NCP dissidents' meeting marred by violence

Kochi, Dec 4 (UNI) A meeting convened by the supporters of Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader K Karunakaran, who had expressed a desire to rejoin the Congress, was today marred by violence as alleged sympathisers of Mr Karunakaran's son and NCP State leader K Muraleedharan went on a rampage at the venue.

Former NCP Ernakulam District President Varghese Mathew said the meeting, attended by around 400 people, was called to declare support to Mr Karunakaran by resigning from the NCP.

He said the trouble started when 10 people barged into the meeting venue and started attacking people present there with chairs and sticks.

Mr Mathew said the meeting was attended by 78 mandala presidents, eight block presidents and as many district office bearers, who all resigned later from the party.

Police said six people, including three journalists, were injured in the attack.

UNI