Tensions escalated in southern India’s Karnataka as followers of an MLA, yet to assume office, openly clashed with Hindu supporters, welding sticks in broad daylight, while the legislator himself stood guard amidst the fracas.

The incident took place in Mangalore in Dakshina Kannada district and the video went viral on July 15.

Visuals showed amidst a crowded area, tensions flared as a large gathering of agitated individuals engaged in a heated confrontation. Police officers intervened, forcefully dispersing the clashing groups with batons, while an MLA pleaded with the officers to spare his supporters from harm, hands folded in supplication to prevent further violence.