Republic Day : Barmer Administration Revokes Honour Amid Deepfake Video Controversy
Republic Day : The Barmer district administration has withdrawn a Republic Day honour granted to Dinesh Manju after objections were raised over his alleged involvement in a deepfake video case linked to Bayana MLA Ritu Banawat. The recognition, which cited Manju’s work in wildlife conservation, was revoked following public criticism and a formal complaint from the legislator.
Objections Raised by the MLA
Independent MLA Ritu Banawat publicly opposed the decision to honour Manju, alleging that he was the principal accused in a case involving the creation and circulation of a deepfake video targeting her. According to Banawat, the video appeared on social media soon after her election victory and had no connection to her personal or professional conduct. She said the matter was reported to senior police officials and remains under investigation.
Status of the Police Investigation
Banawat stated that while some individuals allegedly associated with Manju have been arrested, the main accused has not yet been taken into custody. She described the decision to honour him as deeply troubling, arguing that it reflected a serious lapse in administrative judgment. The MLA said she had approached the Additional Director General of Police (Crime) and continued to follow up on the case through official channels.
Administrative Action and Official Order
As the controversy intensified, Barmer Collector Tina Dabi issued an order late Thursday night withdrawing the district-level honour and certificate of appreciation awarded to Manju. The order also called for an internal enquiry to determine how his name was included in the list of awardees despite the pending allegations. Officials responsible for the recommendation process have been asked to provide explanations.
Republic Day Ceremony Details
Manju had been felicitated during the district-level Republic Day समारोह held on January 26 at Adarsh Stadium in Barmer. The event was attended by senior officials and public representatives, including state minister K.K. Bishnoi, Collector Tina Dabi, and Superintendent of Police Narendra Singh Meena. His name appeared among 113 individuals selected for recognition across various fields of public service and achievement.
Concerns Voiced at the Rajasthan Assembly
Speaking to reporters at the Rajasthan Assembly, Banawat expressed broader concerns about the treatment of women in public life. Referring to the frequently cited slogan “Empowered Woman – Our Responsibility,” she questioned whether institutions were living up to that promise. She said the incident was not an abstract example but a personal experience that highlighted systemic shortcomings.
Questions Over Accountability and Process
Banawat said she had filed a first information report, written to the Assembly Speaker, and formally communicated with senior police officials to ensure the case received due attention. She questioned how a person facing such serious allegations could be cleared for a public honour without adequate verification. The MLA called for clear accountability within the administration to prevent similar lapses in the future.
Broader Implications for Governance
The withdrawal of the honour has sparked discussion within administrative and political circles about due diligence in selecting award recipients. Officials say the enquiry ordered by the district collector will review existing procedures and recommend safeguards. The case has also renewed focus on the growing challenge posed by deepfake content and the need for swift institutional responses when such allegations involve public representatives.