Hanumangarh Unrest: Protests Intensify Against Ethanol Plant; 107 FIRs Filed, 40 Detained

December 12, 2025

Jaipur: The unrest surrounding the Dune Ethanol Private Limited factory in Rajasthan’s Hanumangarh district continues to intensify, with farmers and local residents escalating their protests. Police have so far registered 107 FIRs and detained 40 people. Several women have alleged that police opened fire on them, even displaying bullet shells at Gurdwara Singh Sabha, sparking fear across the region.

Fear Grips Villages as Families Flee Homes

With tensions rising, many families have abandoned their homes and taken shelter with relatives or at Gurdwara Singh Sabha. Two rounds of talks between the administration and farmers on Thursday ended without any breakthrough. ADG V.K. Singh stated that the situation had been normal on December 10 but was later disrupted by “outsiders.”

Farmer Leaders, Politicians Trade Allegations

Mangej Chaudhary, district general secretary of the All India Kisan Sabha, claimed that “rusted police weapons” may have prevented a larger tragedy. He announced a plan to gherao the Collectorate on December 17.
BJP MLA Gurvir Singh Brar visited the protest site, while Jogaram Patel alleged the violence was part of a larger conspiracy, claiming nearly 1,000 outsiders entered Rajasthan and incited clashes. He urged locals to maintain peace and avoid unlawful actions.

December 10: Day of Clashes and Chaos

On December 10, a mob stormed the under-construction ethanol factory in Rathikheda village, breaking down the boundary wall and setting parts of the premises ablaze. Stone pelting erupted between police and protestors, leaving over 70 people injured, including a Congress MLA. Many residents sought refuge in a nearby gurdwara overnight.

Situation Still Tense on Ground

Internet services remain suspended in the Tibbi area, and around 30 families near the factory have fled. Several women protestors have accused the police of brutality. Paramjit Kaur alleged that police dragged her by the hair, beat her, and subjected her to severe abuse while she was returning from the demonstration.