Barmer Collector Rescinds Republic Day Award After Honoree Linked to Deepfake Case
Barmer District Collector Tina Dabi has withdrawn a Republic Day award presented to Dinesh Manju, who is currently accused in a deepfake video case involving Bayana MLA Ritu Banawat. The award, which recognized Manju’s contributions to wildlife conservation, was revoked after the allegations came to light.
Manju had been honored with a citation during a district-level ceremony on January 26, presented by Minister K.K. Vishnoi. His name was among 113 individuals recognized for excellence in various fields.
The decision to revoke the award followed objections raised by independent MLA Ritu Banawat. She informed authorities that an FIR had been filed against Manju for allegedly creating and circulating a manipulated video intended to defame her. Banawat had previously submitted a formal complaint to the Legislative Assembly Speaker and the ADG Crime.
Although several co-accused in the case have been arrested, Manju remains at large. Banawat described the initial decision to honor him as a “serious matter” and criticized systemic oversight.
“In a country that reveres women, such incidents reflect poorly on our institutions,” Banawat stated. “An empowered woman who wins elections independently should not face this treatment.”
Upon learning of the allegations, Collector Tina Dabi directed an immediate inquiry. After confirming the existence of the FIR, she issued an order on Thursday evening canceling the award. Disciplinary proceedings have also been initiated against two officials and clerical staff responsible for the oversight during the selection process.
Dabi explained that Manju’s nomination was initially approved based on recommendations from a district committee reviewing his environmental work. “Once the objection and FIR were verified, we acted promptly to withdraw the recognition,” she stated.
The collector’s intervention has been credited with averting further controversy and upholding accountability in the awards process.
