Rajasthan Saints Protest: A Battle for Sacred Land and Environment

In Bichoon, Rajasthan, saints have taken a decisive stand against a proposed industrial venture, citing threats to a revered religious location and substantial tree felling. The protest, fueled by 'agni tap' rituals performed in sweltering heat, aims to halt the project initiated by the Rajasthan State Industrial Development and Investment Corporation (RIICO) on approximately 330 acres.

Protesters claim the land, inaccurately recorded as scrubland, holds significant spiritual value linked to Saint Dadu Dayal. Despite submitting a memorandum to authorities, their concerns remain unaddressed, prompting a pledge to persist until the project's cancellation. The movement highlights the clash between development and environmental preservation, stirring public and political discourse.

Former Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot voiced disapproval, labeling the issue as 'unfortunate.' He urged Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma to address the escalating tension, emphasizing the contradiction in environmental policies and the public's rising discontent over the potential loss of green cover for industrial gain.