Massive Protests Erupt in Jaisalmer Over Grazing Land Allocation to Solar Company
In a significant escalation of community resistance, villagers in Jaisalmer's Ramgarh region intensified their protests on Monday after discovering that land near Kalra Tala had been officially allotted to a solar energy company. The ongoing agitation, which has persisted for over a month against the allocation of communal grazing grounds to projects linked to the Dalmia group, transformed into a large-scale public demonstration.
Thousands Join 'Public Outrage Rally' Demanding Conservation
The protest saw participation from thousands of residents from the Khadal area, including women, elderly citizens, and children, who collectively organized a 'public outrage rally.' The procession commenced from the historic Shriram temple, with participants vociferously chanting slogans advocating for the preservation of Oran and Gochar lands. These traditional commons are vital for livestock grazing and hold deep cultural and ecological significance.
During a subsequent public meeting, spiritual leader Bal Bharati Maharaj issued a stern warning to the government, urging authorities to reconsider the diversion of these essential grazing lands. The gathering culminated in a symbolic aarti of Bharat Mata, followed by a determined march to the local tehsil office to formally register their grievances.
Sit-In and Memorandum Submission Highlight Livelihood Concerns
Upon reaching the Ramgarh tehsil office, protesters staged a peaceful sit-in, while a delegation of women submitted a detailed memorandum addressed to the Chief Minister through the tehsildar. Local residents emphasized that livestock rearing constitutes their primary and sole source of livelihood, making the protection of Oran-Gochar land critical for economic survival.
Community members articulated that these lands are not merely grazing areas but are home to sacred shrines, natural water bodies, and diverse wildlife. They argued that any diversion for industrial projects would inflict severe environmental damage and precipitate a humanitarian crisis by destabilizing traditional pastoral communities.
The protest underscores a growing conflict between renewable energy development and the preservation of indigenous land rights and ecological balance in rural Rajasthan. Villagers remain resolute in their demand for the revocation of the land allotment, asserting that sustainable development must not come at the cost of eroding vital communal resources and cultural heritage.
