A dramatic altercation at a CNG petrol pump in Bhilwara has brought SDM Chhotu Lal Sharma into controversy once again after a physical clash with pump workers was caught on CCTV. The incident, which occurred at a Jaswantpura CNG station, led to the arrest of three employees and has raised questions over administrative conduct and police action.
Incident at Jaswantpura CNG Station
According to reports, Bhilwara SDM Chhotu Lal Sharma, currently posted in Pratapgarh, visited the petrol pump with a woman identified as Deepika Vyas, who claims to be his wife. The situation reportedly escalated when Vyas alleged that a petrol pump worker winked at her and made an inappropriate remark stated in Complaint. Angered by the alleged misconduct, Sharma confronted the worker, who then began refuelling another vehicle instead of the officer’s car. But the CCTV video shows no evidence of misconduct it shows the Petrol Pump workers not gave preference to vehicle of SDM for refuelling.
This led to a heated exchange, during which SDM Chhotu Lal Sharma slapped the worker, prompting another staff member to retaliate by slapping the officer back. The altercation was captured on CCTV, and the video quickly went viral on social media, drawing widespread public attention.
Police Action and Complaints Filed
Following the confrontation, three petrol pump employees — identified as Deepak Mali, Prabhu Lal Kumawat, and Raja Sharma were arrested by Bhilwara Police. Authorities have confirmed that both sides filed complaints accusing each other of assault.
In her police statement, Deepika Vyas alleged sexual harassment, claiming that one of the workers “winked” at her and made a lewd comment, reportedly saying, “Kya maal lag rahi hai.” Based on her complaint, a case has been registered under relevant sections of the IPC.
The police have also stated that they are reviewing CCTV footage and eyewitness statements to verify the sequence of events. Further legal action will depend on the findings of the investigation.
Past Controversies of SDM Chhotu Lal Sharma
This is not the first time Bhilwara SDM Chhotu Lal Sharma has faced controversy. His administrative career has previously been marred by allegations of domestic violence, indiscipline, and corruption.
According to local sources, Sharma was earlier married to Poonam Jhakhodiya, a college lecturer, in 2008. She reportedly supported him during his early career struggles, but later filed dowry harassment and domestic violence cases against him in 2022. Reports suggest that Sharma deserted Poonam and their two children after attaining his administrative position, leading to a prolonged marital dispute.
Meanwhile, questions are being raised about the current relationship between Sharma and Deepika Vyas, as documents indicate that his first marriage is still legally valid.
Public and Administrative Reaction
The Bhilwara SDM Chhotu Lal Sharma incident has sparked widespread debate on social media, with users calling out what they perceive as abuse of power and privilege. Many have expressed concern over the police’s swift action against the pump employees while no immediate action was taken against the SDM himself.
Civil rights groups and legal experts have emphasized the need for impartial investigation and accountability for all parties involved, regardless of administrative rank.
As the case progresses, both the district administration and police department are under pressure to handle the situation transparently. The Rajasthan government has not yet issued an official statement regarding disciplinary action against SDM Chhotu Lal Sharma.
Ongoing Investigation
Authorities confirmed that the CCTV footage is being examined frame by frame to establish the facts. Police have assured that the law will take its course once the investigation concludes.
While public outrage continues to build, the case of Bhilwara SDM Chhotu Lal Sharma has once again highlighted issues of accountability and conduct within the civil services, especially when incidents involve those in positions of authority.
