Karni Sena chief shot at in Jaipur, four detained

Jaipur: A Karni Sena chief was shot at in Jaipur today after a reported dispute between two factions of the outfit.

Shiv Singh Shekhawat, chief of the Rashtriya Karni Sena, and Mahipal Makrana of the Shree Rajput Karni Sena were involved in a fracas, which led to shooting from both sides. The incident occurred at Chitrakoot, a posh colony in the state capital, presumably at Shekhawat's office.

Mahipal Singh Makrana of the Shree Karni Sena was attacked by Shekhawat's gunmen. Although there was reportedly an altercation between the two chiefs of the separate factions, what exactly transpired and led to the attack is not clear. Videos making the rounds show Makrana slumping on the sofa. He has been rushed to the hospital.

The police, which arrived after the shootout, are reviewing the CCTV footage to ascertain the truth. Although more details are awaited, the police have detained four people.

In December 2023, Shree Rashtriya Karni Sena president Sukhdev Singh Gogamedi was shot dead at his home in another posh colony, Shyam Nagar, in broad daylight at his home-cum-office in Jaipur. Gogamedi, who led the protests against the Deepika Padukone starrer film Padmaavat, had received threats to his life. There were several protests by Rajputs after Gogamedi’s murder, demanding justice for the chief.

Karni Sena is a Rajput outfit that first came to limelight when they protested against the film Jodha Akbar in 2008, claiming the film distorted history. Later, they also protested against Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Padmaavat, alleging he had depicted their queen in a poor light.

Karni Sena has been fighting for the rights of Rajputs and was founded by Lokendra Singh Kalvi. It has been trying to inculcate a feeling of pride among Rajput youths. Rajasthan has around 13 per cent Rajputs, who play a major role in politics as well. Rajputs are known for their valor and bravery.

After the murder of Gogamedi, there is an ongoing battle for supremacy between the various factions.