Hanumangarh Ethanol Factory Dispute Deepens: Dec 17 Mahapanchayat Looms, Admin Alert

• Hanumangarh's ethanol factory dispute escalates, with farmers planning a 'Mahapanchayat' on December 17th.
• A violent clash occurred on December 10th, involving arson, property damage, and police action, leading to injuries and arrests.
• Farmers demand the permanent closure of the factory, citing concerns about air and groundwater pollution and agricultural land.
• The district administration is on high alert, planning heavy police deployment for the December 17th assembly to prevent further violence.
• The factory, a Rs 450 crore grain-based plant, claims to support the ethanol blending policy and create jobs.

Why It Matters: The Hanumangarh factory dispute highlights the clash between development and environmental safety.