Vehicles Torched, Stones Pelted in Tonk as Protest Follows Assault on SDM by Independent Candidate: 60 Arrested

In Rajasthan’s Tonk district, a violent protest erupted after an independent candidate allegedly assaulted a polling officer during the by-elections. On Wednesday night, unidentified individuals clashed with police in Samravata village of Deoli-Uniyara, vandalizing and setting ablaze approximately eight four-wheelers, including police vehicles, and over two dozen two-wheelers.

The confrontation began when supporters of independent candidate Naresh Meena, who reportedly slapped a Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) at a polling station, staged a protest. Some protesters pelted stones and set multiple vehicles on fire. The situation was brought under control only after additional forces arrived.

According to Tonk SP Vikas Sangwan, some villagers had initially boycotted voting, prompting the presence of the SDM, Tehsildar, Additional SP, and other officials at the polling station. During this time, Meena allegedly assaulted the SDM, leading police to remove him from the location. “Action will be taken against him as per the law,” Sangwan stated, adding that voting later resumed peacefully.

Following the incident, the Rajasthan Administrative Service (RAS) Association met with the Chief Electoral Officer, demanding strict action against Meena. The association’s president, Mahavir Kharadi, expressed anger over the assault on the SDM and called for Meena’s immediate arrest.

Defending himself, Naresh Meena claimed that he faced ongoing harassment by officials and accused the SDM of prior misconduct, including allegedly assaulting local residents and tearing down his campaign posters.

By-elections were held on Wednesday for seven seats in Rajasthan, including Jhunjhunu, Dausa, Deoli-Uniara, Khinvsar, Chorasi, Salumbar, and Ramgarh, with results expected on November 20. The by-elections were necessary due to the passing of two MLAs and the election of five others to the Lok Sabha.