Tension in Hanumangarh: Rajasthan government forms committee over ethanol plant, farmers hold mahapanchayat

December 17, 2025

Jaipur: Amidst growing protests against the proposed ethanol plant in Tibbi, the Rajasthan government has formed a five-member committee to investigate concerns related to water resources and environmental pollution in Hanumangarh district.

Rajasthan Government Forms Expert Committee

The committee, headed by the Bikaner Divisional Commissioner, includes senior officials from the Environment, Pollution Control, and Groundwater departments. According to CMO officials, the committee will submit its report to the Additional Chief Secretary, Environment and Climate Change Department, Government of Rajasthan.

Farmers’ Mahapanchayat Intensifies Pressure

Farmers remain adamant on their demands, and all eyes are now on the Mahapanchayat, which will determine the future course of the movement. Prominent farmer leaders from across the country are expected to participate.

The farmers have two main demands: the immediate cancellation of the MoU signed to set up an ethanol factory in Tibbi and the withdrawal of all cases filed during previous protests.

Tight security and internet shutdown

In view of the expected large crowd at the Mahasabha, the district administration has made extraordinary security arrangements. Internet service has been suspended in Hanumangarh district until 12 noon on Wednesday, while Section 163 has been imposed throughout the district. More than 1,400 police personnel, including teams from other districts and the police headquarters, are deployed.

SP Harishchandra is personally monitoring the law and order situation. Heavy barricades have been erected near the District Collector and SP offices, while the Dhanmandi Complex and surrounding areas are being monitored by drones.

District Collector Khushal Yadav has banned the entry of tractors to the Mahapanchayat site, despite farmer leaders insisting on bringing tractors, raising the possibility of a clash between the administration and farmers.