Did the Barmer Collector Withdraw Republic Day Award After MLA Raised Deepfake Concerns?
Synopsis
In a significant turn of events, the Barmer district administration has rescinded a Republic Day award given to Dinesh Manju, linked to a deepfake video incident involving MLA Ritu Banawat. This decision follows mounting pressure and highlights serious issues regarding women's treatment in society. Explore the unfolding story of accountability and justice.
Key Takeaways
Barmer district administration rescinded the honor awarded to Dinesh Manju.
MLA Ritu Banawat raised concerns about the ethics of awarding an alleged criminal.
Manju's involvement in a deepfake video has serious implications.
Calls for accountability highlight issues surrounding women's treatment in society.
Investigation into official lapses is underway.
Jaipur, Jan 30 (NationPress) The district administration of Barmer has retracted the Republic Day accolade awarded to Dinesh Manju, the primary suspect in a deepfake video incident linked to Bayana MLA Ritu Banawat. This recognition was granted for his efforts in wildlife conservation.
Independent MLA Ritu Banawat vehemently opposed the recognition, claiming that Manju was responsible for generating and disseminating a deepfake video of her on social media. She noted that while some of his accomplices have been apprehended, the principal suspect remains on the run.
“I reported this to ADG Crime Dinesh MN. His collaborators were taken into custody, yet the main perpetrator is still untraceable. Honoring him under such circumstances is a grave misstep by the system,” Banawat remarked.
As the situation intensified, Barmer Collector Tina Dabi issued a directive late Thursday to annul the district-level award and certificate of appreciation given to Manju. An investigation into the officials responsible for this oversight has also been initiated.
Manju received the accolade on January 26 during the district-level Republic Day ceremony at Adarsh Stadium, attended by Minister K.K. Bishnoi, Collector Tina Dabi, and SP Narendra Singh Meena.
His name appeared on a roster of 113 individuals honored for notable contributions across diverse sectors.
In a statement to the media at the Rajasthan Assembly, MLA Ritu Banawat voiced her concerns regarding the treatment of women in society.
Referencing the slogan “Empowered Woman – Our Responsibility,” she stated, “An elected female representative is being regarded this way. This is not an isolated incident — it is my reality.”
Banawat clarified that the deepfake video surfaced shortly after her electoral success and is not connected to her. She has lodged an FIR, approached the ADG Crime, and corresponded with the Assembly Speaker. She questioned how an individual implicated in such a serious case could be considered for a public honor and demanded accountability from the administration.
Point of View
This incident underscores the necessity for stringent accountability measures within public institutions. The withdrawal of the award not only reflects the concerns raised by MLA Ritu Banawat but also emphasizes the broader issue of women's rights and societal respect. It is vital for the administration to act decisively against any form of gender-based injustice.
NationPress
12 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was Dinesh Manju's award withdrawn?
The award was rescinded due to his involvement in a deepfake video case concerning MLA Ritu Banawat, which raised serious ethical concerns.
Who is Ritu Banawat?
Ritu Banawat is an independent MLA from Bayana who opposed the recognition given to Dinesh Manju, citing his alleged creation of a deepfake video.
What actions did Ritu Banawat take regarding the deepfake video?
Banawat filed an FIR, approached the ADG Crime, and wrote to the Assembly Speaker to address the serious implications of the deepfake video.
What impact does this incident have on women's rights?
This incident highlights the broader issue of women's treatment in society and the need for accountability in public honors and recognitions.
What consequences are there for the officials involved?
An inquiry has been ordered against the officials responsible for the lapse in awarding Dinesh Manju.
