Tension in Rajasthan&rsquo;s Hanumangarh district escalated sharply on Wednesday as farmers protesting against a proposed ethanol plant in Rathi Khera village clashed with police. What began as a demonstration against alleged environmental risks quickly spiralled into violent confrontations, injuring more than a dozen people, including Congress MLA Abhimanyu Poonia.
Farmers, who have been opposing the ₹450-crore ethanol project, argue that the plant will trigger severe pollution and threaten agricultural land and public health. After holding a gathering outside the SDM office, a group of demonstrators marched to the construction site and demolished a section of the plant&rsquo;s boundary wall using tractors, prompting a rapid police response.
As police attempted to disperse the crowd, the situation deteriorated further. Protesters allegedly set government vehicles on fire and hurled stones at security personnel, forcing authorities to use tear gas shells to regain control. Many injured farmers and police officers were shifted to the district hospital for treatment.
Given the deteriorating law-and-order situation, the district administration imposed Section 144 in Tibbi and nearby areas, suspended internet services, and ordered the closure of schools and markets until further notice. Heavy police deployment has been made across the region to prevent any further escalation.

Rajasthan Ethanol Plant Protest Turns Violent

Farmers clash with police in Hanumangarh as anger rises over proposed ethanol plant

Rajasthan Ethanol Plant Protest Turns Violent

Farmers clash with police in Hanumangarh as anger rises over proposed ethanol plant

December 11, 2025 | 16:17 IST