Clash Breaks Out at KPCC Office During Karnataka Youth Congress Meeting

A meeting organised by the Karnataka Youth Congress at the KPCC office in Bengaluru on May 18 reportedly turned chaotic after a dispute erupted between two groups of party leaders and workers. The gathering had been called to discuss preparations for the Congress party’s proposed protest against the NEET examination controversy scheduled for May 21.

Tensions escalated during the meeting when several Youth Congress leaders and workers questioned the recent suspension of 17 members by State Youth Congress president H.N. Manjunath Gowda. The suspended members accused the leadership of acting unfairly and criticised what they described as an “authoritarian” approach.

According to party sources, the suspensions were reportedly issued because some leaders and workers failed to attend earlier organisational meetings. Among those suspended was State Youth Congress vice-president Deepika Reddy.

Heated Argument Over Suspensions

Sources said the confrontation began when suspended members sought clarification from Karnataka Youth Congress in-charge Nigam Bhandary regarding the reasons behind the disciplinary action. The situation intensified after a supporter from Mr Gowda’s camp reportedly challenged the suspended members’ right to question the decision.

Deepika Reddy and others demanded an explanation for the suspensions, while Mr Gowda is believed to have stated that the matter would be addressed separately in another meeting.

Verbal Clash Nearly Turns Physical

The disagreement soon developed into a heated verbal confrontation, with rival groups raising slogans against the state Youth Congress leadership. Chairs were reportedly pushed aside as workers jostled with one another inside the meeting venue.

Party members and other workers intervened before the argument could escalate into a physical fight.

Allegations of Political Vendetta

Deepika Reddy reportedly alleged that the disciplinary action against her was politically motivated and claimed it reflected bias against women leaders within the organisation rather than genuine disciplinary concerns.

The incident has sparked discussion within party circles ahead of the planned NEET protest, highlighting internal tensions within the Karnataka Youth Congress unit.