Jaipur, June 28, 2026: The case of Reshu Gupta, a momo vendor who suffered severe burn injuries during a VIP movement in Jaipur, has escalated into a major political controversy in Rajasthan. The opposition Congress has intensified its attack on the state government, demanding justice, financial assistance, and strict action against those responsible. Former Rajasthan minister Pratap Singh Khachariyawas has given the government a 24-hour ultimatum, warning that Congress workers will stage a protest outside the Chief Minister’s residence if their demands are not met.
How the Incident Happened
The incident occurred on June 19 in Jaipur’s Jagatpura area when Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma’s convoy was passing through Mahal Road. According to the victim and her family, police personnel asked roadside vendors to immediately clear the route for the VIP movement.
Reshu Gupta, who had recently started a momo stall to support her family, reportedly requested a few minutes because water inside her steamer was boiling. The family alleges that during the hurried removal of vendors, the cart was pushed, causing boiling water to spill onto her body and leaving her with serious burn injuries.
She was rushed to hospital for treatment, and the incident gained widespread attention after videos and her statements circulated on social media.
Congress Gives Government 24-Hour Ultimatum
On Saturday, Congress leaders led by Pratap Singh Khachariyawas staged a protest in Jaipur, accusing the state government of showing insensitivity towards the victim.
Addressing reporters, Khachariyawas alleged that despite the seriousness of the incident, neither senior government officials nor the Chief Minister had personally met the victim immediately after the incident. He demanded:
- Immediate financial compensation for Reshu Gupta.
- The best possible medical treatment at government expense.
- Strict action against officials responsible for the incident.
- Accountability for the alleged negligence during the VIP movement.
He warned that if these demands are not fulfilled within 24 hours, Congress workers would march to the Chief Minister’s residence in Jaipur.
Government Announces Relief Measures
Following public outrage and growing political pressure, the Rajasthan government has announced several relief measures for the injured vendor.
According to officials:
- The entire cost of Reshu Gupta’s treatment will be borne by the state government.
- Financial assistance has been assured to the family.
- Authorities have initiated the process of allotting a Jaipur Dairy booth to provide the family with a stable source of livelihood.
- A police constable allegedly involved in the incident has been placed on line duty pending inquiry, and an investigation is underway.
Municipal officials also visited the victim’s residence and assured the family of continued support.
Victim Disputes Government’s Version
Meanwhile, Reshu Gupta has reportedly rejected claims that she had already accepted government assistance or a dairy booth allocation.
According to her statements carried by several media outlets, she said she is primarily seeking justice and accountability, and maintained that her priority remains action against those responsible for the incident. She also disputed aspects of the government’s public explanation regarding the relief measures.
Political Debate Intensifies
The incident has become a major political issue in Rajasthan, with the Congress accusing the BJP-led government of prioritising VIP movement over public safety.
Opposition leaders have questioned whether adequate care was shown to an injured street vendor after the incident and have demanded greater accountability from the administration. On the other hand, the state government has highlighted the relief package announced for the victim and the disciplinary action initiated against the concerned police personnel.
Investigation Continues
Police officials have confirmed that an inquiry into the incident is in progress. Authorities are examining the actions of personnel deployed during the Chief Minister’s convoy movement, while the victim continues to receive medical treatment.
As the political confrontation intensifies, attention remains focused on whether the government’s announced relief measures will satisfy the victim’s family and whether further action will follow based on the findings of the investigation.
