JAIPUR: Protests against a proposed ethanol plant in Rajasthan’s Hanumangarh district turned violent on Wednesday, resulting in a fierce clash between farmers and police personnel. The unrest unfolded in Rathi Kheda village, where villagers have been opposing the industrial project citing environmental concerns.
The situation deteriorated rapidly after protesting farmers used tractors to demolish a boundary wall under construction at the plant site. In response, police resorted to a lathicharge and fired tear gas shells to disperse the crowd. The confrontation left over a dozen people injured, including Congress MLA Abhimanyu Poonia, who has been admitted to the Hanumangarh district hospital for treatment.
According to reports, the agitation began with a public meeting outside the Sub-Divisional Officer’s office. Following the assembly, the mob moved towards the plant site and breached the perimeter. As police attempted to intervene, the protest turned aggressive. Agitated farmers allegedly set fire to police and administrative vehicles and pelted stones at security personnel.
Administration cracks down
In the wake of the violence, the local administration has taken stringent measures to restore order. Internet services have been suspended in Tibbi and surrounding areas to prevent the spread of rumors. Authorities have also ordered the closure of schools and markets until further notice.
Heavy police deployment remains in place at the site to maintain peace. It is worth noting that Section 144, which prohibits the assembly of four or more people, had already been imposed in the Tibbi area since November 18 in anticipation of unrest.
Environmental concerns fuel anger
The conflict centers around a new ethanol plant being established with an estimated investment of Rs 450 crore. Local farmers and residents argue that the factory will cause severe pollution in the region. Their primary concerns include the degradation of air quality, contamination of groundwater, and the fear that agricultural land will become barren, thereby threatening local livelihoods. The protesters are demanding that the plant be relocated to a different site.
The protest on Wednesday saw the participation of several prominent political figures. Attendees at the ‘Mahapanchayat’ included Sri Ganganagar MP Kuldeep Indora, former Bhadra MLA Balwan Poonia, CPI(M) leader Mangej Choudhary, and leaders from various farmer organizations across Hanumangarh, Sri Ganganagar, and neighboring Punjab.
Political fallout
The incident has sparked a political row in the state. Former Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot strongly condemned the police action against the protesters. He questioned the ruling BJP government’s stance towards the farming community.
“Congress stands firmly with the farmers. Why does the BJP government hate farmers so much?” — Ashok Gehlot, Former Chief Minister
The violence erupted when protesters broke through the factory walls, leading to a direct confrontation with the police force stationed there. The administration continues to monitor the situation closely.
