Imphal, February 01: The reported altercation between Congress workers and MPP supporters at Mayang Imphal yesterday was caused by MPP candidate N Nillachandra after he and his supporters blocked Congress workers carrying gifts on the road, said INC candidate Dr Kh Ratankumar.

Speaking to reporters today at Manipur Press Club, Ratankumar noted that even as the DC had granted Nillachandra permission to hold a public meeting, it was wrong to block Mayai Lambi to hinder Congress workers carrying gifts to his home on the occasion of his flag hoisting ceremony.

Certainly, the DC's permission would not have authorised the Mayai Lambi to be blocked.

Floating a false propaganda that Congress workers took out a rally towards the place where MPP was holding a meeting, Nillachandra blocked the road with the help of his supporters and escort personnel with the ulterior motive to debar Congress workers from attending the flag hoisting ceremony, disclosed Ratankumar.

Despite the provocative action of MPP supporters, there was no untoward incident as police and BSF personnel arrived in time and opened the road, he informed.

Taking part in the press meet, Mayang Imphal BCC president Ningthoujam Nillamani clarified that Congress did not organise any mass rally in the Assembly segment yesterday.

He said large number of Congress well wishers and supporters were coming to the home of INC candidate Ratankumar carrying gifts only to attend his flag hoisting ceremony.

Taking strong exception to permitting a meeting at the crowded Mayang Imphal Keithel, Nillamani asked whether the DC consulted the nearest police station before issuing the permission.

He further disclosed that they would look into as to what can be done against the DC.