The annual general meeting of Chalavadi Mahasabha held in Hassan on Sunday witnessed ugly scenes as a section of members demanded the resignation of Kumar, the president of the Mahasabha. The members, divided over supporting the incumbent president, entered into a heated argument, which led to a fist fight, and finally necessitated the arrival of the police in big numbers at Ambedkar Bhavan.
As the meeting began, some members, who are supporters of retired IAS officer and former Mahasabha president K. Shivaram, demanded the resignation of Mr. Kumar. They wanted Mr. Shivaram to be reinstated as the president. Their opponents then entered into the argument. Mr. Shivaram’s appeal to maintain calm during the meeting went unheard.
Around 100 policemen were brought in to bring the situation under control.
Mr. Shivaram said that Mr. Kumar had declared himself as president by forging his signature on documents. “He has also misused the funds released by the State government for the Mahasabha,” he said.
He further added that he had appealed to the officers concerned to hold the elections. The differences would be resolved once the elections are held.
