In a dramatic escalation following the recent bypolls in Rajasthan’s Deoli-Uniara constituency, Independent candidate Naresh Meena was arrested after slapping the Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) during voting in Samravata village on Wednesday. The altercation sparked violent clashes between police and villagers, leading to widespread unrest.
The situation quickly deteriorated, with stone pelting and arson erupting between the police and the crowd. As many as 50 people were injured in the violence, and the police detained 60 individuals for their involvement in the riots. To regain control, law enforcement fired tear gas shells at the angry villagers.
The tension escalated further when Meena, who was initially taken into police custody, was freed by his supporters after they surrounded the police personnel. This prompted a police crackdown in Samravata village, where over 100 people fled to escape the raids. Meena later went into hiding, with the police continuing their search for him.
In the aftermath, Meena called for a judicial inquiry into the incident, alleging police brutality and defending his actions as a response to the aggression from law enforcement. “Had the Collector visited the spot yesterday, nothing would have happened,” Meena stated in his media appearance. He also emphasized that he did not attempt to flee from police custody.
Police officials confirmed that they are still investigating the matter. Additional SP of Tonk, Brijendra Singh Bhati, mentioned, “We are analyzing the damage and have made several arrests. We are actively searching for Naresh Meena.”
The incident has raised serious concerns about the escalating violence and the role of law enforcement in handling the situation, with calls for transparency and accountability growing louder.
