Violence Erupts: Journalists Attacked Covering Political Turmoil

A PTI reporter and a cameraperson were injured by a mob in Tonk district while covering a protest after Independent MLA candidate Naresh Meena's arrest. The violence, which began after Naresh Meena slapped an official, resulted in their equipment being destroyed and both needing medical attention.

A PTI reporter and a video cameraperson faced severe mob violence in Tonk district on Thursday amid a protest following the arrest of Independent MLA candidate Naresh Meena.

The assault left reporter Ajeet Shekhawat and cameraperson Dharmendra Kumar with significant injuries. Their camera was seized and incinerated by the enraged crowd.

A selfie video captured by Shekhawat, sent to the Delhi head office, shows him bleeding below his left eye. He informed editors about his colleague Dharmendra's head injury and suspected arm fracture. Both were rapidly en route to a hospital in a colleague’s vehicle.

The attack occurred as they prepared to interview Agriculture Minister Kirodi Lal Meena, who was assessing the conflict area.

Unrest started Wednesday evening when police intervened to prevent Naresh Meena's supporters from a sit-in protest. Earlier, Naresh Meena gained attention by slapping SDM Malpura Amit Chaudhary during election duty, caught on camera.

(With inputs from agencies.)