Rajasthan: SDM suspended after viral clip of scuffle at CNG pump goes viral

The Rajasthan government has suspended a state civil service officer for allegedly slapping a CNG pump staffer in Bhilwara after an altercation, a video clip of which went viral on social media, officials said.

The Department of Personnel issued an order suspending Chhotu Lal Sharma, who was posted as sub-divisional magistrate (SDM) in Pratapgarh, on Thursday night, citing administrative reasons.

During his suspension period, Sharma will be attached to the Secretariat, Personnel Department, in Jaipur, the order said.

The action followed after Sharma and a CNG pump employee were caught on camera on Wednesday, slapping each other after a dispute over refuelling the former's vehicle.

The incident, which was captured on CCTV camera, showed the SDM arguing with the employees, who allegedly refused to refuel his vehicle before another.

Police have arrested three petrol pump staff – Deepak Mali, Prabhu Lal Kumawat and Raja Sharma – in connection with the incident, and further investigation is underway, officials said.