On August 20th, a shutdown will be observed in the Jhunjhunu and Sikar districts of the Shekhawati region of Rajasthan. In Jhunjhunu, the shutdown is in protest against the removal of smart meters, while in Sikar, it is against the Master Plan-2041. Traders, schools, lawyers, and farmers will support the shutdown, which will affect markets, educational institutions, and daily life.
Jaipur: A shutdown has been declared for Wednesday, August 20th, in the Jhunjhunu and Sikar districts of the Shekhawati region of Rajasthan. In Jhunjhunu, traders, lawyers, schools, and farmers will participate in the movement demanding the removal of smart meters, and in Sikar, they will protest against the Master Plan-2041. During this time, all markets, educational institutions, and private bus services in the district will be affected. The administration has strengthened security arrangements. The purpose of the shutdown is to raise the public's voice on government policies and issues related to public life.
Jhunjhunu: Smart Meter Removal Movement
In Jhunjhunu district, public opposition is continuously increasing against the smart meters being installed by Ajmer Vidyut Vitran Nigam. On August 20th, all markets, private schools, and buses in the district will remain closed.
Struggle Committee and Zila Parishad member Pankaj Dhankhar stated that this movement does not belong to any political party but is related to the daily life and economic interests of the general public. He says that after the installation of smart meters, electricity bills have increased several times, and the monthly charges are also being increased arbitrarily.
Farmer leader Rajendra Fauji warned that if electricity becomes expensive and unorganized, it will directly affect agriculture and production. Farmers say that they are actively involved in this movement and are supporting the shutdown.
Lawyers' Boycott of Work
Lawyers have also supported the shutdown in Jhunjhunu. The Bar Union has announced a boycott of work during the shutdown. This will also affect court proceedings and legal actions.
Pankaj Dhankhar said, "Our movement is not inspired by any political agenda. This is an issue related to the public's pocket and daily life. Our aim is to raise a b voice against expensive electricity and unfair charges."
Sikar: Opposition to Master Plan-2041
Opposition to the Master Plan-2041 has also gained momentum in Sikar city. On the call of the Struggle Committee and trade organizations, Sikar city will remain completely closed on Wednesday. Around 50 villages will hold a large meeting at Jat Bazaar at 2 pm.
So far, more than 6,000 objections have been registered against the Master Plan-2041. The most opposition is against the decision to reserve agricultural land for public purposes. This step has become a matter of concern for farmers and traders.
The shutdown in Sikar has received support from Congress state president Govind Singh Dotasra, Sikar MP Amararam, MLA Rajendra Pareek, District Congress President Sunita Gathala, CPI(M) leader Kishan Pareek, and several social organizations.
Administration's Preparation and Security
The administration has made strict security arrangements due to the shutdown. Police have been deployed in sensitive areas, and a special plan has been made for traffic control. The administration has requested people not to go out on the streets unnecessarily during the shutdown and to complete essential work before or after the shutdown.
