Khejri Bachao Andolan Intensifies as Hunger Strike Enters Fourth Day
The Khejri Bachao Andolan, a significant environmental protest in Rajasthan, has entered its fourth consecutive day on Thursday, with demonstrators in Bikaner steadfastly continuing their hunger strike despite deteriorating health conditions. The protest, which began on February 2, has seen four participants admitted to Prince Bijay Singh Memorial Hospital due to health complications, while numerous others have received medical attention at temporary camps established near the protest site.
Government Attempts at Resolution Meet Resistance
In an effort to de-escalate the situation, Minister for Skill, Employment and Entrepreneurship KK Bishnoi and State Animal Welfare Board chairman Jaswant Bishnoi visited the Bishnoi Dharamshala on Thursday. They offered juice to the hunger strikers and appealed for an end to the fast. However, the government's announcement restricting Khejri tree felling only in the Jodhpur and Bikaner divisions sparked renewed anger among protesters, who immediately resumed their hunger strike, demanding a comprehensive statewide ban.
"The government order was incomplete as it failed to cover the entire state," stated agitation leader Parsaram Bishnoi, emphasizing the protesters' unwavering stance. Minister KK Bishnoi expressed the government's readiness to provide a written commitment and urged protesters to end their fast, but saints present at the protest site refused to withdraw without formal documentation.
Escalating Tensions and Broader Protests
During the government representative's address, tensions flared as protesters seized the microphone, insisting on written assurances from authorities. Former minister Bhanwar Singh Bhati highlighted the collective resolve, stating, "All sections of society participating in the agitation decided to continue until a complete ban on cutting Khejri trees was imposed across Rajasthan." He referenced Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma's Assembly announcement about enacting a conservation law but stressed the demand for an immediate interim ban until legislation is formally implemented.
The protest initially commenced at the Polytechnic College ground near the Collectorate in Bikaner before relocating to the Bishnoi Dharamshala later that night, where it persists. Meanwhile, in Barmer, parallel demonstrations unfolded at the collectorate on Thursday, where some youths climbed gates and raised slogans after police closed the premises. Additional District Magistrate Rajendra Singh Chandawat engaged in discussions with protesters, and a memorandum addressed to the Chief Minister was submitted.
Personal Stories and Key Demands
The movement carries deep personal significance for many involved. Following the tragic death of environmental activist Radheshyam Bishnoi in a road accident on May 23 last year, his mother Ratni Devi and wife Nirma Bishnoi have continued his legacy and are now participating in the hunger strike, advocating for Khejri tree protection. Environmental activist Bhajanlal Bishnoi, who joined the Barmer protest, outlined the core demand: the state government must introduce a law to protect Khejri trees in the current Assembly session, including provisions for a Rs one lakh fine for violations.
Hospitalized protester Mokhram Dharaniya reiterated the movement's determination, saying, "People are sitting on a hunger strike, including me. Our protest will continue until our demands are met." As the Khejri Bachao Andolan gains momentum, it underscores growing environmental concerns and the urgent call for legislative action to preserve Rajasthan's ecological heritage.
