Rajasthan's Hanumangarh Braces for Fresh Protests as Tensions Over Ethanol Factory Persist
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Rajasthan's Hanumangarh district remains on edge as farmers and opposition leaders continue to demand the halt of an under-construction ethanol factory. The protests, which began on Wednesday, have seen clashes between farmers and police, injuring over 50 people, including women. Farmers have been gathering at a local gurdwara, with more than 100 reportedly staying overnight. The situation remains volatile, with shops and schools shut and internet services suspended for the second consecutive day. The ethanol factory, Dune Ethanol Pvt Ltd, has obtained all necessary approvals, according to Collector Dr. Khushal Yadav. However, farmers claim that the factory would not be allowed to operate unless it receives environmental clearance and has the consent of local residents. Leaders from the Congress, CPI(M), and several farmer organisations from Haryana and Punjab are supporting the protests. Congress MLA Abhimanyu Poonia sustained a head injury during the clashes, while Congress leader Shabnam Godara accused the administration of provoking the farmers. Talks between farmer groups and the administration are expected to begin later in the day. The situation in Hanumangarh remains tense, with farmers vowing to continue their agitation until their demands are met.
