Barmer: Deoli-Uniara assembly seat is in the news amid by-elections in the state. There is a lot of uproar due to the ‘slap incident’ of Congress rebel and independent candidate Naresh Meena. During this time, RAS Association has opened a front against Naresh Meena. Here, now Barmer’s famous IAS Tina Dabi has also been entered in the slapping case. They have protested against the slapping incident of Malpura SDM and have assured the RAS officers that we are also standing with you. Here, after the pendown strike of 927 IS officers of Rajasthan, the revenue employees have also stopped work in the state.
Tina Dabi also gave her support to RAS Association
During voting on Wednesday in Samravata village of Deoli subdivision of Tonk district, independent candidate Naresh Meena slapped the SDM of Malpura. There was a huge uproar regarding this incident. Regarding the incident, RAS Association has given a memorandum to the State Chief Electoral Officer demanding the arrest of Naresh Meena. Here, in Barmer, IAS Tina Dabi has also extended her support to the revenue employees who came to submit the memorandum. Tina said that slapping an on-duty officer is a crime. We also stand with you regarding this incident, we have also given the above memorandum.
There is chaos in Tonk after the arrest of Naresh Meena.
Last night there was a fierce conflict between Tonk police and supporters of Naresh Meena. During this the crowd became uncontrolled. On this the police released tear gas shells and chilli bombs. During this, the angry mob pelted stones at the police and set dozens of vehicles on fire. Last night, seeing the police tightening their grip, Naresh Meena disappeared along with some supporters to escape. Later on Thursday morning, Naresh Meena returned back to Samarwata village.
Police again fired tear gas shells to arrest Naresh
Tonk police arrested Naresh Meena in the presence of heavy police force. However, the police had to work hard to deal with the angry crowd. The police had to release tear gas shells. During this the police used force. Here, after Naresh’s arrest, supporters are protesting by blocking Tonk Sawai Madhopur Highway.
What are the potential impacts of the ‘slap incident’ on the political landscape in Rajasthan during the Deoli-Uniara by-elections?
Interview: Time.news Editor and Political Expert on the Deoli-Uniara By-Elections and the ‘Slap Incident’
Time.news Editor: Welcome to our special segment focused on the ongoing by-elections in Rajasthan, particularly the Deoli-Uniara assembly seat. We’re joined today by political expert Dr. Sanjay Verma. Dr. Verma, thank you for being here. Can you give us a brief overview of the current climate surrounding the Deoli-Uniara seat?
Dr. Sanjay Verma: Thank you for having me. The Deoli-Uniara assembly seat has indeed captured headlines recently, primarily due to the controversial ‘slap incident’ involving Naresh Meena, a Congress rebel and independent candidate. This incident has ignited significant political tensions in Rajasthan, especially against the backdrop of the by-elections.
Time.news Editor: Absolutely. The incident escalated quickly and seems to have mobilized not just political parties but also various factions within the civil service. How do you see the involvement of the RAS Association and now IAS officer Tina Dabi in this situation?
Dr. Sanjay Verma: The involvement of the RAS Association is critical here. Their decision to confront Naresh Meena indicates a broader concern about the treatment of civil servants in the state. The fact that Tina Dabi has publicly supported the RAS officers amplifies the message that such behavior—especially violent behavior—is unacceptable in a democratic setup. Dabi is a highly respected IAS officer, and her stance puts additional pressure on the political landscape.
Time.news Editor: It seems like this incident has catalyzed a larger movement among government employees. We saw the strike involving 927 IS officers, and now revenue employees are joining in. What implications might this have on the government?
Dr. Sanjay Verma: The strike reflects deep-rooted frustrations within the ranks of civil services in Rajasthan. When a significant number of officers unite over an incident like this, it often leads to discussions about employee welfare, safety, and accountability in governance. The government will need to address these concerns seriously. If not, it risks significant disruptions in public administrative services, which could affect the larger electoral process as well.
Time.news Editor: That’s a vital point, and it leads us to the bigger picture. How do you think the ‘slap incident’ could influence voter sentiment in the upcoming by-elections?
Dr. Sanjay Verma: Political incidents like this often shape public opinion dramatically. Voters may view the incident as indicative of the overall governance and political culture in Rajasthan. If they feel that the political leaders are disrespectful to civil servants, this could turn the tide against the ruling party, especially if there is a perception of impunity. Conversely, it may also consolidate support for rebellion candidates like Naresh Meena if voters perceive him as a symbol of speaking out against authority.
Time.news Editor: As the by-elections approach, what strategies do you think the major parties will employ to address the situation and win over voters?
Dr. Sanjay Verma: The major parties will likely focus their narratives on accountability, transparency, and employee rights. The Congress party could position itself as the defender of civil servants, while the ruling party may try to distance itself from the incident to maintain its authority. Expect a surge in campaign rhetoric surrounding civil service reforms, as well as efforts to highlight either side’s relationship with grassroots employees.
Time.news Editor: Thank you, Dr. Verma, for sharing your insights on this complex and evolving situation. It will be fascinating to see how both political parties navigate these challenges ahead of the by-elections.
Dr. Sanjay Verma: My pleasure! It’s certainly a critical moment for Rajasthan, and I will be watching closely to see how this unfolds.
Time.news Editor: We’ll be following it with you. Thank you for joining us today!