A youth was thrashed and assaulted at an NDF rally when he attempted to obstruct the proceedings and pose a question to the Speaker who was addressing the event.

The youth, who was recording a rally from a mobile phone, identified himself as an "independent journalist."

However, NDF supporters gathered around him thrashed the youth and dragged him out of the venue. The incident has drawn an angry response from SLPP supporters on social media.

When asked about the incident, a UNP spokesman said the man was "planted" by the SLPP to disturb the proceedings.

The spokesman, however, said the act was condemned.

It is not immediately clear whether a police complaint has been lodged regarding the incident.