Tension erupted in Hanumangarh, Rajasthan, as a large farmers’ protest against a proposed ethanol plant escalated into violence on Wednesday. Hundreds of farmers gathered in Tibbi town for a Mahapanchayat, resulting in clashes with police, arson, and widespread disruption.
Violence Breaks Out During Farmers’ Protest
The protest turned chaotic when farmers attempted to march toward the ethanol plant site at Rathi Kheda village, breaking the boundary walls and setting at least 14 vehicles, including a JCB, on fire.
Police used lathi-charge to control the mob, leading to injuries among over 50 protestors and police personnel, including Congress MLA Abhimanyu Poonia. Authorities detained seven protestors and shut down internet services while imposing Section 163 to prevent further escalation.
Reasons Behind the Protest
Local farmers and villagers have opposed the ethanol plant for over 15 months, fearing:
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Environmental damage
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Soil degradation
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Threats to agricultural livelihoods
Speakers at the Mahapanchayat, supported by farmer groups from Rajasthan, Punjab, and Haryana as well as Congress, CPM, CITU, and various unions, warned that the factory could pollute water sources and render fertile land barren. Shops and local markets in Tibbi voluntarily shut down in solidarity.
Police Response and Security Measures
According to Superintendent of Police Harishankar Yadav:
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Police dispersed the crowd with controlled lathi-charge.
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Five policemen sustained injuries during clashes.
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Authorities are identifying individuals involved in arson and vandalism.
He emphasized, “No one will be allowed to take the law into their hands.”
Administration Defends Ethanol Plant
District Collector Khushal Yadav defended the project, stating it followed all legal and environmental norms:
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MoU signed in 2022
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Comprehensive inspections conducted in 2023
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Workshops organized to explain benefits
He highlighted that the plant aims to bring development and prosperity to the region and condemned the violent acts, urging farmers to resolve concerns through dialogue.
Impact on Local Residents
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Nearly 30 families near the factory site evacuated due to arson.
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Schools, colleges, and markets remained open under heavy police deployment.
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Farmers and political leaders warned that protests will continue until their demands are met.
Over 1,500 police, RAC, and Home Guard personnel have been deployed in Tibbi and Rathikheda to maintain law and order.
Key Highlights
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Farmers oppose ethanol plant fearing environmental and agricultural harm.
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Mahapanchayat escalates into violence; 14+ vehicles torched.
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Section 163 imposed; internet services suspended.
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Authorities promise accountability and urge dialogue over confrontation.
