Hanumangarh in Turmoil Over Ethanol Factory; Internet Suspended, Heavy Police Deployed

Hanumangarh, Rajasthan: Tensions escalated in Rajasthan’s Hanumangarh district as protests over a proposed ethanol factory intensified, leading to internet suspension and the deployment of a large police contingent. The unrest follows more than a year of sustained opposition by local villagers.

Police Action Sparks Outrage

The conflict centers around a proposed ethanol plant at Chakra 5R in village Rathikheda, Tibbi region. On 18 November, around 4 a.m., police arrived at the protest site to remove tin sheds and tents set up by villagers. This action sparked widespread anger among the locals, who claimed their peaceful protest was being forcibly suppressed. Villagers insist they are fighting to protect their land and environment and have vowed to continue their struggle against the factory.

Internet Suspended and Political Presence

The confrontation drew political attention, with Sangaria MLA Abhimanyu Poonia arriving at the site, leading the protests. Amid the unrest, 67 villagers were taken into custody. As a precaution, the administration suspended internet services in the area, which remained in effect at the time of reporting.

Heavy Police Deployment

According to ADM Umedilal Meena, over 400 police personnel were deployed at the scene, supplemented by additional RAC forces from Churu, Sri Ganganagar, and Bikaner. Efforts are ongoing to mediate between the administration and the villagers.

Villagers’ Concerns

Local residents have been protesting peacefully against the proposed factory for over a year and a half. They claim that the plant would increase pollution, adversely affect groundwater quality, and harm soil fertility, threatening local agriculture. Additionally, villagers fear air pollution from the factory could lead to respiratory and other health issues.

The situation remains tense, with authorities closely monitoring developments to prevent further escalation.