Thu Nov 14 13:35:00 UTC 2024: ## Independent Candidate Slapped SDM, Arrested; Supporters Riot in Rajasthan
**Tonk, Rajasthan:** Naresh Meena, an independent candidate for the upcoming by-election in the Devli-Uniyara assembly constituency, was arrested on Wednesday after allegedly assaulting SDM Amit Chaudhary at a polling booth. His arrest sparked outrage among his supporters, who set fire to a state highway outside Samravata village in protest.
Police were dispatched to the scene to disperse the crowd and clear the road. Tonk SP Vikas Sangwan confirmed the arrest and stated that Meena was apprehended after refusing to surrender to the police. He added that Meena faces multiple charges, including those related to the assault, and that his supporters will be held accountable for the violence.
Prior to his arrest, Meena denied the assault allegations, claiming he was “framed” and targeted by powerful individuals. He also stated that he was rendered unconscious by pepper spray used by police and that his supporters carried him to safety after the incident.
Meena further criticized the SDM’s actions, stating that he “doesn’t belong to any caste” and that he would have assaulted him regardless of his identity.
This incident follows a pattern of tension and violence during the by-election campaign, raising concerns about the fairness and security of the upcoming election.
First Piper 