Bhilwara, October 24 (Udaipur Kiran): The Rajasthan government has suspended Bhilwara SDM Chhotulal Sharma (RAS) after a video showing him slapping a petrol pump employee went viral on social media. The suspension order was issued late Thursday night by the Department of Personnel, and during the suspension period, Sharma’s headquarters will remain at the Jaipur Secretariat.
The incident took place on October 21 at a petrol pump located near Jaswantpura, under Raila police station limits on the Ajmer–Bhilwara Highway. Around 3:43 p.m., SDM Sharma arrived at the pump in his car. Another vehicle pulled in right after his.
When the pump attendant began filling CNG gas in the car behind the SDM’s vehicle, Sharma became angry and slapped the employee. In retaliation, the pump worker also slapped the SDM, leading to a brief scuffle.
Following the altercation, police registered a case and arrested three petrol pump employees — Deepak Mali, Prabhu Lal Kumawat, and Raja Sharma — under preventive sections for disturbing peace. However, they were released later. The state government has now taken disciplinary action against the SDM after reviewing the incident footage.
Complaint Filed and CCTV Evidence
The SDM’s companion, a woman who was with him during the incident, filed a complaint at Raila Police Station, alleging that the staff misbehaved and even harassed her when the SDM questioned the delay in filling CNG. However, CCTV footage from the petrol pump contradicted this claim, clearly showing the SDM initiating the altercation and using aggressive gestures before striking the attendant.
The video quickly spread across social media platforms, sparking widespread criticism and demands for immediate suspension. Responding to public outrage, the Department of Personnel issued the suspension order the following day.
The incident, captured entirely on CCTV, has reignited debate over the misuse of authority by administrative officials and the need for accountability in public service.
Bhupendra Singh Chundawat is a seasoned technology journalist with over 22 years of experience in the media industry. He specializes in covering the global technology landscape, with a deep focus on manufacturing trends and the geopolitical impact on tech companies. Currently serving as the Editor at Udaipur Kiran, his insights are shaped by decades of hands-on reporting and editorial leadership in the fast-evolving world of technology.
