A police head constable in Rajasthan's Ajmer district has been suspended amidst a storm of allegations linking his disciplinary action to illegal mining activities, leading to a major political controversy.
Constable's Suspension and Viral Allegations
Head Constable Rajesh Meena from the Kekri Sadar police station was suspended on Tuesday. The official reason cited was his alleged physical assault on members of the public near a Kekri hospital and threatening them with his service pistol.
However, in a dramatic turn of events, Meena released a video on Wednesday that quickly went viral. In it, he defended himself, claiming his suspension was an act of retaliation. He stated he was punished for arresting individuals involved in illegal mining in Devpura village.
Political Accusations and Counter-Claims
Meena directly accused local BJP MLA Shatrughan Gautam of influencing his suspension. He alleged the MLA threatened repercussions for acting against the illegal mining operations, which he claimed were being conducted using heavy machinery and tractors.
Refuting these charges, MLA Gautam told the Times of India that the constable was drunk during the assault incident. "An FIR has been filed against the cop, and he has been suspended. He attempted to open fire and escaped from police custody Tuesday morning," Gautam said, adding that all allegations against him were false and he was ready for an investigation.
Senior police officials, including Ajmer SP Vandita Rana, supported the disciplinary action. "There is an FIR against head constable Meena for assault and intimidation. His suspension is a matter of disciplinary action and not related to any other issue," Rana stated. She confirmed the case is being inquired into by the Kekri circle officer.
Broader Implications and Political Reactions
Meena's account suggests a deeper conspiracy. He claimed that after seizing vehicles from the illegal mining site, he was assaulted by a gang. He insisted that illicit activities in the region were being supported by local BJP politicians.
The video attracted attention from opposition leaders. Congress state president Govind Singh Dotasra posted on X, stating the incident reflected broader law and order issues in Rajasthan. The tweet accused BJP members and police officials of sheltering criminals while targeting honest officers.
The Kekri Sadar police station SHO, Jagdish Prasad Choudhary, denied all of Meena's allegations and declined further comment as the matter is under investigation by senior officials.
