The Khejri tree conservation movement, which began in Bikaner, is now turning into a statewide public protest in Rajasthan. Activists have been sitting on a hunger strike for two days, demanding a halt to the cutting of Khejri trees.
The movement has started receiving strong political backing. Former Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje, RLP chief Hanuman Beniwal, and Congress leader Pratap Singh Khachariyawas have extended support.
Khachariyawas launched a sharp attack on the BJP-led state government. He said the Khejri tree is not just a plant but the soul and cultural identity of Rajasthan. He warned that if the government fails to change its stand, Congress will intensify the movement across the state.
He accused the government of weakening existing strict laws related to tree cutting. According to him, such policy changes are putting life-supporting trees like Khejri at serious risk. He said development cannot come at the cost of environmental destruction.
Khachariyawas also highlighted the ecological value of the Khejri tree. He explained that its leaves feed livestock, its branches provide fuel, and the tree regenerates naturally. He called it the backbone of Rajasthan’s rural life cycle.
He said Congress stands firmly with the people and will not allow public sentiments to be ignored.
