Tensions have escalated during a protest rally in Jumla after police resorted to pelting stones towards protesters at Chandannath temple on Thursday. The Karnali denizens who have been demanding for a separate Karnali state with special rights had reached the temple area in front of the District Administration Office when police who are posted at the temple terrace started pelting stones towards the protesters , said the rally organisers. As a result of the incident, a clash erupted between the police and the protesters injuring over two dozen people. Over 5,000 people comprising of women, youths, teachers, students, politicians and local people from various part of Karnali have joined the protest in Khalanga.