A major protest in Didwana, Rajasthan, on Monday, against the government's decision to bring farmers' lands under state custodianship and declare them 'siwai chak', escalated into clashes, resulting in Ladnun MLA Mukesh Bhakar fracturing his leg. The incident took place as protesters attempted to storm the District Collectorate, leading to a confrontation with the police.
The Genesis of the Protest: Custodian Land Dispute
The core of the agitation revolves around the government's intent to designate certain custodian lands as 'siwai chak' (government-owned wasteland). Farmers contend that they've held rights to these lands for decades and that the government's move is an attempt to dispossess them under the guise of state custodianship. This issue has been a simmering point of contention in the region, with many farmers fearing loss of livelihood. Protesters argue that declaring these lands as 'siwai chak' would strip thousands. Of families of their primary source of income and traditional land rights.
Clash Between Protesters and Police Forces
On Monday, a large gathering of farmers and political activists converged outside the Didwana District Collectorate. They aimed to enter the Collectorate to voice their demands, but a significant police contingent, equipped with barricades, blocked their path. As protesters, including prominent leaders like Sikar MP Amraram, Ladnun MLA Mukesh Bhakar, former MLA Chetan Dudi, and Balwan Punia, attempted to climb the barricades, a scuffle ensued. The police tried to forcefully prevent their entry, leading to a chaotic situation where pushing and shoving escalated.
Presence of Other Leaders and Current Standoff
During the intense confrontation, Ladnun MLA Mukesh Bhakar fell from a barricade, sustaining a severe leg injury. He was immediately rushed to a local hospital for treatment,. Where medical professionals confirmed a fracture and applied a cast. The news of MLA Bhakar's injury further inflamed the sentiments. Of the protesters, intensifying their resolve to continue the agitation. This incident has brought a new dimension to the ongoing land dispute, drawing widespread attention.
MLA Mukesh Bhakar wasn't the only prominent figure at the protest; Sikar MP Amraram,. Former MLA Chetan Dudi, and Balwan Punia were also actively involved, showing solidarity with the farmers. Following the MLA's injury, the protesters have now settled into a sit-in demonstration directly in front of the District Collectorate, while they've vowed to continue their protest until their demands are met and the decision to declare custodian lands as 'siwai chak' is revoked. The incident has heightened political tensions in the area, putting increased pressure. On the government to find a swift resolution to the land issue.
Future Course of Action and Government Response Awaited
The protesting farmers and leaders have made it clear that their dharna won't conclude until their demands are fully addressed and the controversial decision regarding custodian lands is withdrawn. The administration has deployed additional police forces to maintain law and order and prevent further escalation. It's anticipated that the government will soon issue a statement or take action on the matter, as the MLA's injury has made this issue even more sensitive. Farmer leaders have warned of intensifying the agitation if their concerns aren't heeded, indicating a prolonged struggle ahead.
