In a dramatic and high-tension turn of events in Rajasthan's Barmer district, Sheo MLA Ravindra Singh Bhati attempted self-immolation on Tuesday. The incident occurred outside the Barmer District Collectorate, where Bhati was leading a massive protest in support of laborers from the Giral Lignite Mines. The situation turned critical when the MLA suddenly poured petrol on himself and attempted to strike a matchstick to set himself on fire. The prompt intervention of the police and administration prevented a major tragedy.
The Self-Immolation Attempt and Police Intervention
As the protest reached the gates of the District Collectorate, Ravindra Singh Bhati took the extreme step of dousing himself in petrol. The sight of the MLA with a matchbox in hand sent shockwaves through the crowd and the security personnel on duty. Seeing the gravity of the situation, Additional Superintendent of Police (ASP) Nitesh Arya and other senior police officers rushed toward Bhati. They managed to overpower him and seize the matchbox just in time. Following the incident, the police immediately escorted the MLA inside the Collectorate premises for his safety. To maintain order and prevent the agitated crowd from entering, all gates of the Barmer District Collectorate were promptly locked, while despite the closure, a large number of laborers continued their demonstration outside the gates.
Background of the Giral Lignite Mines Protest
The protest led by Ravindra Singh Bhati is rooted in a long-standing dispute involving the Giral Lignite Mines. For the past 39 days, laborers have been staging a sit-in protest outside the mines, raising various demands. The conflict dates back nearly 30 years when Rajasthan State Mines and Minerals Limited (RSMML) acquired land in Thumbli, Giral, and surrounding areas. Local residents allege that despite the land acquisition, they've not received the promised employment opportunities for three decades. The resentment has intensified recently following reports that several local youths are being removed from their existing jobs by the company, contrary to the initial promises of providing employment to the local population.
The Escalation and the March to the Collectorate
The movement, which gained significant momentum on April 9, received the full support of Sheo MLA Ravindra Singh Bhati. A day prior to the incident, Bhati had held a press conference where he issued a stern warning to the administration. He stated that if the demands of the laborers weren't met, he would join forces with the labor unions for a decisive struggle. True to his word, a massive public meeting was organized on Tuesday to advocate for the rights of the workers. Following the meeting, a large convoy of vehicles set out toward the district headquarters to gherao the Collectorate. However, the police intercepted the convoy at the BSF gate on the outskirts of Barmer city. Undeterred, Bhati and the laborers abandoned their vehicles and proceeded toward the Collectorate on foot.
Key Demands of the Laborers
The protesting laborers have presented a 6-point charter of demands to the administration. Their primary grievances include the implementation of a strict 8-hour work shift and ensuring that local youth are given priority in employment opportunities at the mines. They're also demanding that the company fulfill all the employment-related promises made during the land acquisition process years ago. During the march, Bhati accused the government and the administration of trying to suppress the voice of the poor using force and batons. He emphasized that the laborers were only demanding their rightful dues and wouldn't be intimidated by such tactics.
Legal Context and High Court Orders
The administrative crackdown comes in the wake of a recent legal development. On Monday, the Rajasthan High Court heard a petition filed by the contractor company involved in the mines. The court issued clear instructions to immediately resume the transportation of lignite from the Giral Mines. On top of that, the High Court directed the Barmer Superintendent of Police (SP) and the Sheo Station House Officer (SHO) to take strict action against anyone obstructing the transport operations. The court ordered the arrest of individuals causing hindrances and mandated full security for the transport vehicles. This judicial order has put the local administration and police on high alert, leading to the heavy security presence and the eventual confrontation at the Collectorate.