Jaipur, October 2025: A short CCTV clip showing Rajasthan Administrative Service officer Chhotu Lal Sharma physically striking petrol-pump staff in Bhilwara went viral this week, prompting swift administrative action and widespread public criticism. The state government has suspended Sharma and ordered an inquiry while police continue investigating the incident that has reignited debate over abuse of authority by public officials.
What the video shows
The 30–40 second footage, recorded at a CNG/petrol pump on the Ajmer-Bhilwara highway, appears to show Sharma stepping out of his vehicle and slapping an attendant after an argument over fueling priority. Another employee steps in, a scuffle follows, and voices — including a woman identified by some reports as the officer’s wife — are heard in the background. The clip spread rapidly across social media platforms, drawing immediate public attention.
Official response and suspension
Within hours of the clip going viral, the Rajasthan government issued an order suspending Sharma under relevant service rules. Authorities said the officer will remain posted at the Secretariat or administrative office during the probe. Local police also registered complaints and arrested three petrol-pump employees in the immediate aftermath based on an initial complaint lodged by a woman who claimed misconduct by the staff. Investigators are now examining video evidence and witness accounts from both sides to determine the truth.
Conflicting claims and ongoing investigation
Accounts of what triggered the altercation differ. Sharma and his supporters say the petrol-pump staff made inappropriate remarks toward a family member and that his actions were a response to provocation. Pump staff and independent viewers of the CCTV clip dispute that version, arguing the video shows the officer initiating physical contact. Police say the probe will consider CCTV footage, eyewitness statements and complaints filed by both parties to ensure fairness and transparency.
Why this matters
The incident underscores two persistent issues: the use of force by public servants and how quickly social media can amplify local disputes into statewide controversies. Public trust in civil servants depends on impartiality and restraint; when videos show otherwise, administrative credibility can erode rapidly. The government’s quick suspension signals an attempt to restore public confidence while the investigation proceeds. It also reflects the growing influence of public opinion in official accountability.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
1. Who is Chhotu Lal Sharma?
Chhotu Lal Sharma is an RAS (Rajasthan Administrative Service) officer posted as Assistant Director (Public Service) in Pratapgarh. He has previously served as Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) in various parts of the state and is known for his strict administrative approach.
2. When and where did the incident happen?
The altercation occurred in Bhilwara at a CNG/petrol pump located on the Ajmer-Bhilwara highway. The video began circulating on social media in late October 2025, quickly catching the attention of both the media and the government.
3. Was the video authentic?
According to police sources, the CCTV footage has been taken as primary evidence in the investigation. While some individuals claim the clip may have been edited, authorities are currently verifying the authenticity of the original recording from the petrol pump’s system.
4. Has the SDM been suspended?
Yes. The Rajasthan government suspended Chhotu Lal Sharma immediately after the video went viral, citing administrative misconduct and potential violation of service discipline rules. He will remain under suspension until the inquiry is completed.
5. Were there any arrests?
Police arrested three petrol-pump employees following an official complaint related to the incident. Investigators have clarified that this does not conclude the case and that evidence against all involved parties is being reviewed thoroughly.
6. What laws apply in this case?
The case may fall under provisions of the Indian Penal Code concerning assault and public disorder. Additionally, internal disciplinary action is being carried out under Rajasthan’s civil service regulations to address administrative misconduct.
7. Will there be departmental or criminal charges?
The government has initiated a parallel departmental inquiry, and depending on the findings of the police investigation, further criminal or administrative charges may be filed. The outcome will rely on verifiable evidence and witness statements.
8. Has the officer commented publicly?
Unofficially, Sharma has claimed he was provoked by inappropriate remarks made toward a family member and alleged that the footage shared online might have been selectively edited. However, he has not issued any formal statement as the investigation is ongoing.
9. How has the public reacted?
Public reaction has been largely critical. Many social media users condemned the SDM’s actions as an example of misuse of power, while some argued that the incident highlights stress and tension public officials face daily. The viral spread of the video reignited conversations about accountability in government service.
10. What happens next?
The police investigation is still in progress. Once completed, the report will be submitted to the Rajasthan Secretariat. Depending on the inquiry’s outcome, the government will decide on reinstatement, demotion, or permanent dismissal. Transparency in this process is being closely watched by both citizens and the media.
11. Can the petrol-pump staff file counter-complaints?
Yes. The petrol-pump employees have the right to file counter-complaints, and reports indicate that some have already done so. Police are examining both complaints to ensure an unbiased conclusion. The final findings will depend on corroborated evidence and legal evaluation.
Conclusion
The Bhilwara petrol-pump scuffle serves as a reminder that public officials’ actions are always under public scrutiny — especially in an age where digital recordings can instantly become viral evidence. As the investigation continues, the focus remains on transparency, fairness, and the integrity of public service. The Rajasthan government’s immediate suspension of Chhotu Lal Sharma demonstrates its responsiveness to public concern. What remains crucial now is a fair inquiry that restores confidence in governance and sets a precedent for accountability.
Report by Toofan Express