Rajasthan Bypolls: Violence Erupts In Tonk After Independent Candidate Allegedly Slaps SDM, 60 Arrested

A major outbreak of violence occurred in the Deoli-Uniara assembly constituency in Rajasthan's Tonk district after Independent candidate Naresh Meena allegedly slapped the sub-divisional magistrate (SDM) Amit Chaudhary at a polling station on Wednesday.

The incident, which unfolded in Samravata village, Tonk district, sparked widespread unrest, including arson and clashes between the police and Meena's supporters. Meena is standing as an Independent candidate in the constituency's by-election.

Ajmer Range Inspector-General of Police Om Prakash confirmed that 60 people were detained following the chaos that erupted after the alleged assault.

"There was an uproar, stone pelting, and arson in Samravata village late last night as police attempted to apprehend Naresh Meena, Independent candidate for the Deoli-Uniara assembly constituency by-election in Tonk district, after he allegedly physically assaulted SDM Amit Chaudhary at a polling booth yesterday," he said.

"Many vehicles were set ablaze and vandalised. To date, 60 people have been arrested in connection with this incident," Prakash told news agency ANI.

Naresh Meena's Response

Meena told news agency PTI that the district collector and superintendent of police were responsible for the entire situation. "All 60 people who have been arrested are innocent. If anyone should be punished, then it should be me," he said.

In response to the incident, Meena posted on social media platform X, saying, "Main theek hu... na dare the na darenge, aage ki ranniti bata di jayegi (I am fine... I am not scared and will never be, further plans will be shared)."

The Incident That Led to the Unrest

The violence intensified as some individuals began pelting stones and setting vehicles, including police cars, on fire. Around eight four-wheelers and over two dozen two-wheelers were damaged or set alight during the confrontation. Additional police forces were deployed to restore control.

Tonk Additional Superintendent of Police (SP) Brijendra Singh Bhati said the police were evaluating the extent of the damage caused. "We are analysing the loss. We have made a few arrests," Bhati said.

Local authorities increased police presence in the area to maintain order. Speaking to reporters, Tonk SP Vikas Sangwan provided details on the incident, explaining that officials were addressing a voting boycott in Samravata village when Meena allegedly entered the polling station and assaulted the SDM. "In Samravata village, some people had boycotted voting. To assess the situation, the SDM, Tehsildar, Additional SP, and other officers were present. During this time, Independent candidate Naresh Meena entered the polling station and physically assaulted the SDM. The Additional SP immediately removed Naresh Meena from the location," he said.

SP Sangwan assured that legal action would be taken against Meena. "Action will be taken against him as per the law. We arrived at the spot and spoke to the villagers, after which voting resumed peacefully," he added.

The situation remains tense as authorities closely monitor the area to prevent any further escalation.