In a dramatic turn of events, Independent candidate Naresh Meena was arrested on Thursday in Rajasthan's Tonk district after slapping an election official during a bypoll on Wednesday. The incident has triggered a series of violent protests, forcing authorities to deploy police in riot gear to contain the unrest.
The arrest follows Wednesday's incident, when tensions flared in Samravata village. Naresh Meena reportedly assaulted Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) Amit Chaudhary outside a polling booth. Chaudhary was supervising election procedures when the altercation occurred. The entire incident was captured on camera, sparking outrage and a strong response from law enforcement.
Protests Turn Violent
Attempts to arrest Meena led to a violent backlash from his supporters. Hundreds of protesters gathered, pelting stones at police officers and setting vehicles ablaze. Police responded with tear gas to disperse the crowd. The situation further escalated on Thursday morning when Meena’s supporters attempted to block his arrest by burning tyres on a major road, hoping to obstruct the police convoy.
The aftermath of the protests left Samravata village in disarray. According to Ajmer Range Inspector General Om Prakash, over 60 individuals have been detained in connection with the violence. Authorities reported that at least 24 large vehicles and 48 motorcycles were torched, with several homes also sustaining significant damage.
In response to the escalating situation, Special Task Force (STF) units were deployed early Thursday to conduct search operations, maintain order, and prevent further unrest. Security forces remain on high alert, monitoring the area for any signs of additional disturbances.
Tonk Superintendent of Police Vikas Sangwan detailed the events leading to Meena's arrest, "A group in Samravata had called for a voting boycott, prompting local officials—including the SDM, Tehsildar, and Additional SP—to visit the site. During their visit, Naresh Meena stormed into the polling booth and physically assaulted the SDM. The Additional SP intervened and restrained him. Despite the incident, voting resumed peacefully following our intervention."
In his defense, Naresh Meena accused the SDM of previous misconduct. He claimed that SDM Amit Chaudhary had harassed local residents and coerced them to vote under threat of job loss.
Meena also alleged that his supporters faced intimidation tactics throughout the election period, including the destruction of his campaign posters and attempts to block people from voting for him.
He said, "The SDM had earlier beaten a woman in Hindoli, her husband, and a teacher, forcing them to vote under duress. My supporters have been targeted since October 25."
Ongoing Investigation and Security Measures
As investigations continue, authorities are working to identify those responsible for the destruction and violence that followed the incident. Additional security personnel have been stationed in Samravata to prevent further clashes, with law enforcement closely monitoring the situation.
In response to the attack on SDM Amit Chaudhary, the Rajasthan Administrative Service Officers' Association has expressed its strong support for the official, calling for strict action against Meena. The association has emphasised the importance of protecting government officials performing their duties and ensuring accountability for any assaults on public servants.
The bypoll in Tonk has now drawn state-wide attention, with the violence raising concerns over election security and the conduct of candidates during the polling process.
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