A violent clash broke out between rival factions of the CPN-UML in Parbat on Wednesday, centred around the timing of a Youth Association convention. The incident took place at the UML district office, where tensions between the two sides escalated into physical violence.

Arjun Paudel, a member of the UML Gandaki Province Committee and Youth Association leader, sustained a head injury during the altercation and was given first aid at the local medical facility. He has been transferred to Pokhara for further treatment, according to party sources.

The confrontation stemmed from disagreement over whether to proceed with the convention as scheduled. One faction, aligned with former National Assembly chair Ganesh Prasad Timilsina, had called for a postponement, while the opposing group, linked to former minister Padam Giri, insisted on going ahead.

Despite Timilsina camp's opposition, the Giri faction proceeded with the event, with Youth Association vice president Ashish Shrestha chairing the session and joint secretary Dhruba Shrestha moderating it. Although Binod Thapa remains the official president of the Youth Association, the convention was conducted under alternative leadership.

According to the District Police Office in Parbat, the event was held under heavy police security on the third floor of the UML district building. However, when members from the Timilsina faction attempted to halt the proceedings, a violent scuffle broke out.

The police confirmed that investigations are underway, and further measures will be taken based on the findings.

Internal tensions within the UML have been simmering in Parbat, with rival leaders competing for influence at both the provincial and district levels.

Two factions within UML had come to a similar assault in Dhanusha on Tuesday.