Ajmer observed a complete shutdown on Saturday as protests erupted, demanding strict action against the accused in the alleged Beawar rape and blackmail case. Various right-wing organisations demanded a CBI inquiry into the matter. A massive ‘Aakrosh protest’ rally was organised in the city, culminating at the collector’s office around 11:30 AM.
Members of several organisations scaled barricades and chanted slogans before submitting a memorandum to the collector. Deputy Mayor of Ajmer, Neeraj Jain, stated, “We want the case to be handed over to the CBI… Justice must not be delayed, as was seen in the Ajmer blackmail case, where culprits were punished after 33 years. This case should be fast-tracked to ensure timely justice.”
As many as 124 market associations pledged their support to the bandh across Ajmer, with shopkeepers urged to close their establishments.
However, essential services — including schools, colleges, petrol pumps, gas agencies, and hospitals — remained unaffected. During the bandh, videos circulated on social media showing members of different organisations enforcing the shutdown, some wielding sticks.
The protest stemmed from allegations that the accused from the minority community were sexually assaulting minor girls from private schools, blackmailing them using explicit photos and videos.
Police have registered a case under the POCSO Act and other relevant sections, including those pertaining to rape, and have launched an investigation. So far, the Bijainagar police have arrested 10 persons and detained three minors. Police are also interrogating former councilor Hakim Qureshi and café operator Sanwar Mal.