What Actions is the Rajasthan Government Taking as the Health of Fast-Tracking Saints Declines?
Synopsis
As the health of fasting saints deteriorates amidst the intense Khejri tree conservation movement in Rajasthan, the government is taking action. Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma’s intervention highlights the critical situation, prompting ministerial visits and ongoing protests demanding environmental protection. Will their demands be met?
Key Takeaways
Khejri tree conservation is a vital environmental movement in Rajasthan.
Health concerns are rising among fasting protesters.
Government officials are now engaging with activists.
Protests continue as demands for action remain unmet.
458 activists are participating in the hunger strike.
Jaipur, Feb 5 (NationPress) The ongoing Khejri tree conservation movement in Rajasthan's Bikaner has intensified, leading to a decline in the health of fasting saints and numerous participants. In response, Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma has recognized the urgency of the situation.
Following the Chief Minister's directive, Minister K.K. Vishnoi visited Bikaner on Thursday, engaging with protesters at the site.
Accompanying him were Rajasthan BJP MLAs Pabba Ram Bishnoi and Jaswant Singh Bishnoi, along with State BJP Vice-President Biharilal Bishnoi.
The officials met with the fasting saints and members of the Environmental Struggle Committee, taking note of their requests and promising to seek a resolution.
While Gordhan Maharaj addressed the crowd at the protest, Minister Vishnoi and MLA Jaswant Singh Bishnoi were present on stage.
During the speech, fasting protester Mukharam Dharniya unexpectedly collapsed.
A female protester also fainted.
Both were swiftly taken to a temporary medical facility located behind the stage.
Earlier, on Wednesday, fasting saints Laldas and Mangilal were hospitalized at Prince Bijay Singh Memorial Hospital in Bikaner due to deteriorating health.
Leaders of the Environmental Struggle Committee, including Parasram Bishnoi, Ramgopal Bishnoi, and Subhash Bishnoi, firmly stated that their hunger strike will persist until the state government offers a written commitment regarding their demands.
They emphasized that the movement has been ongoing for an extended period, advocating for environmental protection and local issues, yet no significant actions have been taken thus far.
The mass protest outside the Bikaner Collectorate, calling for Khejri tree conservation and the implementation of a Tree Protection Law, has now reached its fourth day.
Currently, 458 environmental activists, including 29 saints and 60 women, are participating in the hunger strike, abstaining from both food and water.
Point of View
It is crucial to highlight the significance of the Khejri tree conservation movement in Rajasthan. This situation embodies the struggle for environmental justice, as dedicated activists put their health on the line. The government's response will be pivotal in determining the future of both the movement and environmental policies in the region.
NationPress
11 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Khejri tree conservation movement?
The Khejri tree conservation movement is an initiative aimed at protecting Khejri trees in Rajasthan, with activists advocating for environmental preservation and sustainability.
Why are saints fasting?
Saints are fasting to draw attention to environmental issues and demand governmental action regarding the protection of Khejri trees.
What has the government done in response?
In response to the deteriorating health of fasting saints, Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma has sent Minister K.K. Vishnoi to engage with protesters and discuss their demands.
How many people are participating in the hunger strike?
Currently, 458 environmental activists, including 29 saints and 60 women, are participating in the hunger strike.
What do the protesters want?
Protesters are demanding a written assurance from the state government regarding the protection of Khejri trees and the enactment of a Tree Protection Law.
