What Happened During the Anta Bypolls? Independent Candidate Protests Amid Peaceful Voting
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Synopsis
In a surprising turn of events during the Anta assembly bypolls, independent candidate Naresh Meena staged a sit-in protest, revealing underlying local development issues. As villagers boycotted voting, the incident highlighted the tensions between candidates and the administration, shaping the electoral landscape in Rajasthan.
Key Takeaways
- Independent candidate Naresh Meena protests for local development issues.
- Voting process remained largely peaceful despite the boycott.
- Significant voter turnout, especially among women and first-time voters.
- Rising tensions between candidates and the administration.
- Local governance issues are pivotal in electoral decisions.
Jaipur, Nov 11 (NationPress) During the largely serene voting process in the Anta assembly constituency on Tuesday, a fresh controversy emerged as independent candidate Naresh Meena initiated a sit-in protest on a muddy road in Sankali village, where local residents chose to boycott the elections over pressing development concerns.
As per Election Commission regulations, officials reported that voters were prohibited from bringing mobile phones into polling stations.
In Sankali village, the community opted to abstain from voting, advocating for the construction of a road and a cremation ground. Naresh Meena arrived to support the villagers and joined their protest in the muddy area.
The demonstration concluded after discussions with administrative officials. Meena assured the villagers that he recognized their challenges and would prioritize resolving these issues if elected as MLA.
He criticized the administration for being lenient towards BJP leaders while allegedly targeting his supporters.
Meena also claimed that a significant amount of cash and liquor was confiscated from Congress leaders but faced no stringent repercussions.
Fifteen candidates are vying for the Anta assembly seat, with a three-way competition expected among BJP’s Morpal Suman, Congress’s Pramod Jain Bhaya, and independent candidate Naresh Meena. A total of 227,563 registered voters are participating across 268 polling stations.
Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) have been stationed at sensitive polling booths. Voting will persist until 6 p.m., after which all EVMs will be secured in a strong room in Baran. Notably high voter enthusiasm was observed, especially among women and first-time voters.
Many senior citizens also exercised their voting rights with assistance, some arriving in wheelchairs. By 3 p.m., the voter turnout had reached 64.68 percent across the constituency.
Naresh Meena, a rebel from Congress, is contesting as an independent candidate in this election. He previously stirred controversy during the recent assembly polls in 2023 by slapping an SDM, resulting in his detention.
Point of View
The unfolding events in the Anta bypolls illustrate the intricate dynamics of local governance and electoral participation. The protest led by Naresh Meena underscores the critical need for candidates to address constituents' concerns seriously. It is crucial for the electoral process to reflect the voices of the community, ensuring that their issues are prioritized.
NationPress
12/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What were the main reasons for the protest in Sankali village?
The villagers boycotted voting due to demands for local development, specifically the construction of a road and a cremation ground.
Who are the main candidates in the Anta assembly bypolls?
The main candidates include BJP's Morpal Suman, Congress's Pramod Jain Bhaya, and independent candidate Naresh Meena.
What was the voter turnout by 3 p.m.?
By 3 p.m., the voter turnout stood at 64.68 percent across the constituency.
What issues did Naresh Meena address during the protest?
Naresh Meena expressed awareness of the villagers' issues and promised to prioritize their concerns if elected as MLA.
What security measures were in place during the polling?
Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) were deployed at sensitive polling booths to ensure a smooth voting process.
