Rajasthan’s Deoli-Uniara by-poll took an unexpected turn when independent candidate Naresh Meena was arrested on Thursday for allegedly slapping a polling official on election day. This incident sparked violent protests by Meena’s supporters, who clashed with police, blocked highways, and set vehicles ablaze.
Meena was detained in a high-tension operation by police officers in full riot gear. Before being taken into custody, Meena declared, “I will not surrender,” urging his followers to “surround the police and jam traffic.” His supporters responded by gathering to block roads outside Samravata village, the site of the incident.
Videos shared on social media showed the police navigating burning barricades as they restored order. “We have cleared the roadblock, and the situation is under control,” said Brijendra Singh Bhati, Additional Superintendent of Police in Tonk.
The ‘Slap-Gate’ Incident
The controversy erupted when a viral video showed Meena confronting Sub-Divisional Magistrate Amit Choudhary at a polling booth, grabbing his collar, and striking him twice before police intervened. Meena accused Choudhary of manipulating votes in favor of the ruling BJP.
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However, police officials countered Meena’s claim, stating that the SDM was only persuading villagers to participate in the election.
Meena’s arrest led to further unrest, with protesters engaging in vandalism and arson. Authorities reported that over 60 individuals were detained for obstructing government officials and damaging public property. Police Inspector-General (Ajmer Range) Om Prakash confirmed additional force deployment to restore calm in the area.
Political Repercussions and Accusations
In the aftermath, Meena accused Congress Tonk MP Harish Chandra Meena of orchestrating the incident and warned he might be targeted for his independent stance. Meena, suspended from Congress prior to the by-poll for contesting as an independent, alleged harassment by political rivals.
Former Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot criticized the ruling BJP over the law-and-order situation, stating, “This was not a minor incident… When there is no fear among people, they take the law into their hands.”
By-Poll Stakes
The by-election in Deoli-Uniara, necessitated by Harish Chandra Meena’s election to the Lok Sabha, is seen as critical. The result, scheduled to be announced on November 23, could have implications for both Congress and BJP in Rajasthan.
