Puttur Congress drama: MLA Ashok Rai’s supporters gherao Hakeem Koornadka over viral audio clip

Puttur Congress drama: MLA Ashok Rai’s supporters gherao Hakeem Koornadka over viral audio clip

Mangalore Today News Network

Puttur, Sep 2, 2026: Tensions between Puttur MLA Ashok Rai and Congress worker Hakeem Koornadka and their supporters escalated on Tuesday, leading to a high-voltage confrontation and commotion outside the Puttur Press Club.

Two days ago, Hakeem Koornadka had released an audio clip on social media alleging administrative failures by MLA Ashok Rai. The audio went viral and drew strong criticism from the MLA’s supporters. Hakeem had called a press conference at the Puttur Press Club to clarify his remarks and provide further details regarding the audio.

As soon as Ashok Rai’s supporters learned that Hakeem had arrived for the press meet, they gathered outside the Press Club in the presence of the MLA and raised strong objections. They shouted slogans demanding that Hakeem be sent out of the Press Club and surrounded him.

The situation became tense when some of Hakeem’s supporters were allegedly subjected to attempts of physical assault. Police personnel at the spot struggled to control the situation and ensure Hakeem’s safety.

Eventually, Hakeem was escorted out of the Press Club under heavy police protection and taken home in a police vehicle. Police later dispersed the crowd of Ashok Rai’s supporters and brought the situation under control.

The open confrontation between supporters of the MLA and a Congress worker has caused considerable concern for the police and highlighted growing tensions within the Puttur Congress unit.