Madikeri: The watchman of the Horticulture Department has been hospitalised after he was assaulted by a trader outside Raja Seat in Madikeri on Sunday night.

While the injured watchman is Jayanna, the trader, who allegedly assaulted him, is Khaleel.

Jayanna was working as a watchman at Raja Seat on contract basis and his wife Susheela runs a toy shop. At about 8 pm on Sunday, wordy duel ensued between Jayanna and Khaleel during which Khaleel allegedly assaulted Jayanna with a stick injuring him on his head. Later, Jayanna and Susheela got themselves treated at the District Hospital. The video of the assault has gone viral on social media.

Madikeri City Police, who have registered a case, have initiated legal action on Khaleel.