The police detained around 20 people from the Pembilai Orumai protest venue in Munnar on Thursday after a scuffle broke out in the area.
It is understood that a group of people barged into the venue, tried to evict the protesters and demolish the shed they were using. Pembilai Orumai leader Gomati alleged that CPM workers, led by an area committer member, started the clash.
The hunger strike by Pembilai Orumai in Munnar entered its third day on Thursday. The women plantation workers collective started the stir following derogatory comments by electricity minister MM Mani against them during a public event last week.
The protesters said the CPM's decision to censure Mani is not enough for them, and the fasting would continue till the minister offers an apology.