Congress MLA Sounds Alarm Over Khejri Tree Crisis in Rajasthan Assembly
During the Zero Hour session of the Rajasthan Assembly on Wednesday, Congress MLA Dungar Ram Gedar brought urgent attention to the deteriorating condition of the state tree, khejri, as the Khejri Bachao Andolan continues to gain momentum across the region. Gedar, representing the Suratgarh constituency, accused the state government of failing to take decisive action against the large-scale destruction of these ecologically vital trees, despite a persistent two-year protest led by the Bishnoi community in Bikaner.
Government Inaction Amidst Growing Public Outcry
Gedar emphasized the critical need for a strict law to protect the khejri tree, stating, "Khejri being the state tree, there is an urgent need for a strict law to protect it." He highlighted the intensity of the protest movement, noting that lakhs of individuals participated in a mahapadav (sit-in) on February 1, with 29 saints currently undertaking an indefinite fast. These protesters are risking their health in a desperate bid to halt further felling of khejri trees.
The MLA expressed deep concern for the welfare of the protesters, revealing that their condition has worsened significantly. Alarmingly, no government officials have visited the protest site or engaged in dialogue to address their grievances, underscoring a perceived lack of responsiveness from the authorities.
Former Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot Voices Support
Adding weight to the issue, former Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot publicly expressed his support for the movement aimed at preserving not only the khejri trees but also the ecological and cultural heritage of Rajasthan. Gehlot took to social media platform X to voice his concerns, describing the indiscriminate cutting of khejri trees in the name of development as "extremely painful and unacceptable."
Gehlot underscored the historical significance of the khejri tree, recalling the 18th-century sacrifice of 363 individuals, including Amrita Devi Bishnoi, who famously laid down their lives to protect these trees. He emphasized that their legacy must be honoured and that environmental protection should be a top priority moving forward.
Key Points of the Khejri Bachao Andolan
- The protest has been ongoing for two years, led by the Bishnoi community in Bikaner.
- A massive sit-in on February 1 saw participation from lakhs of people.
- 29 saints are currently on an indefinite fast, with their health deteriorating.
- No government officials have visited the protest site for dialogue.
- The movement seeks to protect Rajasthan's ecological and cultural heritage.
The situation highlights a growing tension between development initiatives and environmental conservation in Rajasthan, with calls for immediate governmental intervention to safeguard the state's natural resources.
