Former BJP MLA Atar Singh Bhadana Beaten To Death In Rajasthan Mob Attack

In a shocking incident that has sent ripples through the political landscape of Rajasthan, former Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MLA Atar Singh Bhadana has passed away following a brutal attack. The incident occurred in the Vair region of Bharatpur district on Sunday evening, where a large mob reportedly targeted the former legislator at a stone crusher site, while the severity of the assault, involving a crowd of approximately 70 to 80 individuals, led to critical injuries that ultimately proved fatal for the veteran leader.

Details of the Violent Assault

The attack took place between 6:30 PM and 7:00 PM on Sunday when mining operations were underway at a hill associated with the crusher. According to reports, a mob of 70 to 80 people descended upon the site, armed with sticks and stones. They launched a coordinated attack on Atar Singh Bhadana and those present with him, while during the violence, the former MLA and his personal bodyguard, identified as Gagan Sharma, sustained grievous injuries. The attackers reportedly pelted stones and used sticks to beat the victims mercilessly before fleeing the scene.

Medical Emergency and Demise

Immediately after the incident, the injured were rushed to the Sub-District Hospital in Vair for emergency medical attention. Given the critical nature of Atar Singh Bhadana's injuries, doctors provided primary treatment and recommended an immediate transfer to a more advanced facility, while he was subsequently moved to the Sawai Man Singh (SMS) Hospital in Jaipur. Despite the best efforts of the medical team, the former MLA succumbed to his injuries during treatment late Sunday night, while meanwhile, his bodyguard Gagan Sharma, who also suffered significant injuries, has been referred to a hospital in Bharatpur for further care.

Allegations by the Family

The wife of the deceased leader, Kamlesh Bhadana, has leveled serious allegations regarding the nature of the attack. She stated that a massive group of 70 to 80 people targeted her husband and his associates. Plus, she claimed that Atar Singh Bhadana was injured by a gunshot, suggesting that the attackers might have used firearms during the confrontation. While these claims have added a new dimension to the case, the local police have yet to officially confirm whether any shots were fired during the incident.

Police Investigation and Background of the Dispute

Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Dhirendra Singh provided insights into the possible motives behind the violence, while he revealed that there has been a long-standing dispute between the local villagers and the crusher operator, spanning the last 2 years. The villagers had been actively protesting against the operation of the crusher and had even organized sit-in demonstrations (dharnas) to voice their opposition. On the evening of the incident, mining work was being carried out using heavy machinery on the hill, and the former MLA was present at the location. It's alleged that the villagers' frustration over the crusher's operation culminated in this violent outbreak. The police are currently gathering more information and investigating the involvement of the 20 to 25 workers who were present at the site to determine the full extent of the casualties and the sequence of events.