A TV show erupted in violence when two politicians came to blows during a live debate.

They clashed in a Manchester studio during a politics show that was being streamed live on international digital TV.

The debate ended with Ahmed Zadi, the senior vice president of the Pakistan Peoples Party in Greater Manchester, being floored by the man he deposed, Khaleem Khawaja.

Viewers saw 54-year-old Khawaja get up from his seat and hit Mr Zadi, 52, around the head three times.

Distressed

The camera then cut away to a distressed woman presenter as the two men, who had been arguing with one another in Punjabi, appeared to continue tussling off screen.

Manchester magistrates’ court heard that Mr Zadi ended up unconscious and slumped on the floor after being hit about the head, neck and back by Khawaja.

Mr Zadi, a father-of-three from Longsight, told the M.E.N that Khawaja insulted his family and lashed out when he demanded that he be more respectful.

Violent

He said: “I was totally shocked when he became violent. This is not how politicians behave. He started insulting my family and my business and I told him he should respect other people’s personal life.

“I was very, very surprised when he lashed out. He has never apologised.”

He says he was caused further embarrassment after the incident – which was filmed at studios in Turner Street, and screened live on DM Digital TV – appeared on YouTube.

Conduct

Khawaja, of Skerton Road, Old Trafford, admitted assault and was given a 12-month conditional discharge and ordered to pay £100 compensation.

 After the case Mr Khawaja defended his conduct.

“We could have had the conversation behind closed doors. He kept on provoking me. I am the president, he is elected president which is a position below me.”