Is Rajasthan's Malpura SDM Facing Legal Trouble Over Newspaper Office Demolition?
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Synopsis
The recent legal troubles faced by Malpura SDM Amit Kumar Chaudhary highlight the ongoing issues of authority abuse and the protection of journalistic freedom in Rajasthan. The case, stemming from the demolition of a local newspaper office, raises significant questions about governance and accountability in public office.
Key Takeaways
- SDM Amit Kumar Chaudhary faces legal action over a controversial demolition.
- The case highlights issues of authority abuse in Rajasthan.
- Journalistic freedom is under scrutiny amid these legal challenges.
- The court's directive emphasizes accountability in public office.
- Continued investigation will determine the outcome for those involved.
Jaipur, Aug 14 (NationPress) Malpura SDM Amit Kumar Chaudhary, who previously garnered attention for being assaulted during the assembly by-election, is now embroiled in legal complications due to the demolition of a newspaper office.
Despite an existing stay order, ACJM Malpura found Chaudhary culpable in connection with the unauthorized demolition of a rented office space run by a local journalist.
The court mandated that a case be filed against six individuals, Chaudhary included.
Journalist Rakesh Kumar Pareek had operated a newspaper office for the last decade in a building owned by the Municipality at Chungi Naka, Vyas Circle, Malpura. The office was leased from the Municipality, supported by a valid agreement and consistent rent payments documented in municipal records. The electricity connection was also registered under the Municipality, with the tenant settling bills regularly.
Two years prior, a dispute with the former Executive Officer (EO) prompted proposed demolition actions against the premises.
In retaliation, Pareek obtained a stay order from the civil court. However, eight months ago, despite the stay order still being in effect, then-acting EO (now SDM) Amit Kumar Chaudhary allegedly commanded the demolition using a bulldozer.
Following this event, Pareek lodged a complaint in court.
On Wednesday, the ACJM court ruled that the demolition contravened the existing court order and instructed that a case be recorded against six municipal officials and employees, including Chaudhary.
In accordance with the court's order, the Malpura police registered FIR No. 156/2025 on Wednesday night. The FIR includes the following individuals: Amit Kumar Chaudhary (acting EO at the time, now SDM), Pawan Kumar (Tehsildar), Jayanarayan Jat, Ramdas Mali, Rajesh Kumar (Jamadar), and Rajendra Kumar (Store Keeper). They have been charged under IPC sections 198, 199(B), 201, 334(1), 334(2), and 61(2).
Malpura police station in-charge Chena Ram Jat confirmed that an investigation is currently underway. SDM Amit Kumar Chaudhary has previously faced issues during the Deoli-Uniyara assembly by-election.
He was serving as the sector in charge when villagers in Samravata opted to boycott the polls. Amid accusations of voter coercion and fraudulent voting, independent candidate Naresh Meena assaulted Chaudhary.
This incident sparked considerable uproar and led to formal complaints to both the government and the Scheduled Tribes Commission.
Point of View
Accountability is paramount. The actions of SDM Amit Kumar Chaudhary serve as a reminder of the delicate balance between authority and ethical governance. As the investigation unfolds, it is crucial for media and citizens alike to scrutinize the actions of their leaders, ensuring that justice is upheld and the rights of journalists are protected.
NationPress
19/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What led to the demolition of the newspaper office?
The demolition was ordered by SDM Amit Kumar Chaudhary despite an existing stay order from the civil court, following a dispute with the previous Executive Officer.
Who is Rakesh Kumar Pareek?
Rakesh Kumar Pareek is a local journalist who had been operating a newspaper office for a decade in Malpura and is the tenant affected by the demolition.
What has the court ruled in this case?
The court found SDM Chaudhary guilty of violating the stay order and directed that a case be registered against him and five others.
What are the implications of this incident?
This incident raises significant concerns about the misuse of authority and the protection of journalists in Rajasthan.
What actions are being taken against the involved officials?
The Malpura police have registered an FIR against the involved officials, including charges under various IPC sections.
