Tensions flare at NDIS rally in Melbourne

An elderly protester has been pushed to the ground as tensions flared at a disability funding rally in Melbourne.

Organisers are calling on Victoria Police to apologise after the rally over disability funding descended into chaos.

A 79-year-old was protester pushed from his bike and onto tram tracks after allegedly spitting at officers.

READ MORE: Hantavirus cruise ship arrives in Canary Islands as passengers await evacuation

"They picked me up, threw me on the ground with my bicycle, holding my bicycle," Social Alliance member Bob said.

Bob claims he confronted them over the arrest of a woman who heckled a politician nearby.

"Honestly I can't remember what I think, I can't even remember what I said. It's all a blur now," Bob added.

READ MORE: Person dies after being hit by plane that was taking off from US airport

"I realize you do have a job to do, but you do need to do it within the confines of human decency."

Officers then pounced on a younger man who allegedly tried to punch them.

The event was part of a national day of action against the federal government's plan to cut the NDIS.

Organisers described the police response as excessive.

READ MORE: Woman charged with using antisemitic slur during netball game

"It's disappointing that police didn't take our accessibility concerns appropriately," Protect our NDIS co-organiser Andrew Brethern said.

"It made us feel like we're second-class citizens, which is kind of what these cuts are about."

Victoria Police issued a statement.

"Both the man and woman were taken from the scene, processed, and released," a spokesperson said.

"The man on the bike was not arrested, and police are investigating."

The organisers of yesterday's rally said they wouldn't be backing down, continuing their campaign against NDIS cuts.

They're also calling on Victoria Police to apologise for the way officers responded.