November 14, 2024: In a dramatic turn of events, Naresh Meena, the independent candidate contesting Wednesday's by-poll for Rajasthan's Deoli-Uniara Assembly seat, was arrested on Thursday after a tense standoff with police. The arrest followed a high-octane operation by a large police force, which included senior officers and riot gear-clad cops.

Meena, who became the center of controversy after slapping an election official on camera during the voting process, had earlier defiantly declared to reporters, “I will not surrender,” just moments before his arrest. In a bold move, Meena urged his supporters to "surround the police" and "jam traffic," prompting widespread protests.

The police, however, were well-prepared. A convoy of officers, nearly all equipped with shields, lathis, and full riot gear, marched down a rural road to apprehend Meena. Anti-riot vehicles and police cars were seen in the area as authorities prepared for a possible escalation. Vikas Sangwan, the Superintendent of Police in Tonk district, told the media, “We will approach strategically… we will request him to surrender and not take the law in his hands.”

Despite the police’s efforts to peacefully resolve the situation, the arrest triggered an immediate response from Meena’s supporters. Scores of his followers gathered outside the village of Samravata, where the infamous "slap-gate" incident occurred, and began blocking the highway in protest. Tensions soared as angry crowds clashed with security forces.

The incident, which unfolded on the day of the by-poll, had already stirred political debates, with Meena’s actions drawing sharp criticism. Footage showing him slapping the election official, reportedly in protest of alleged irregularities during the voting process, quickly went viral, intensifying the controversy surrounding his candidacy.

As of now, the situation remains tense, with local authorities working to restore order amid the ongoing protests. Political leaders from various parties have weighed in, with calls for strict action against Meena and his supporters, while others have voiced concerns over the heavy-handed approach of law enforcement.