Mumbai: Maharashtra's already charged political atmosphere plunged further on Thursday when a clash broke out within the Assembly premises between supporters of NCP (SP) MLA Jitendra Awhad and BJP MLA Gopichand Padalkar.

The scuffle, which lasted for at least five minutes, allegedly saw one of Awhad's supporters being beaten up before several security personnel intervened to separate the two groups. The incident prompted the opposition to raise the matter in the Assembly, accusing Padalkar of "bringing goondas" into the House.

"You can check the video. It clearly shows goondas were brought into the Assembly, and members are being threatened with death," Awhad told the Speaker while demanding action.

Assembly Speaker Rahul Narwekar assured that strict steps would follow after a review of the footage. "I have sought the video. The safety of members is my responsibility, and I will ensure it. No one will be spared," Narwekar said as Awhad reiterated his claim that the attackers intended to kill him.

The issue echoed in the Legislative Council as well. Speaking outside the Assembly, Awhad alleged that ever since his argument with Padalkar on Wednesday, he had been receiving abuses and threats to his life.