Bikaner’s “Save Khejri” Movement Intensifies; Ex-MLA Mahendra Bishnoi Mentions Salman Khan

Bikaner, Rajasthan: The “Save Khejri” movement in Bikaner has intensified, with protesters holding a prolonged sit-in, or Mahapadav, demanding stricter protection for the state tree. Former MLA Mahendra Bishnoi made a striking statement during the protest, referring to actor Salman Khan while highlighting the urgency of stronger legal measures.

Speaking at the Mahapadav, Bishnoi said, “Even Salman Khan was reminded of his grandmother (‘nani’).” He emphasized that the current laws protecting the Khejri tree are insufficient and need immediate amendments. According to Bishnoi, without stringent penalties, illegal felling of Khejri trees cannot be effectively prevented.

He drew attention to a past incident in which the Bishnoi community had challenged Salman Khan over illegal hunting of deer, referencing it as an example of community enforcement. Bishnoi stressed, “Khejri is not just a tree; it is a symbol of Rajasthan’s culture, environment, and way of life. The government must adopt a strict stance to protect it. If laws remain weak, large industrial projects could threaten the very existence of the Khejri.”

Protesters Demand Firm Action

Demonstrators at the Mahapadav also expressed strong discontent with local administration. Many vowed, “We can risk our lives, but will not let the Khejri be cut.” They insisted that the authorities will eventually have to meet their demands, warning that the community would take decisive steps if necessary.

Independent MLA Ravindra Singh Bhati, addressing the crowd, called for a legislative demonstration. “I have raised this issue in the Assembly, but now we need to surround it. Sometimes, as Bhagat Singh said, one has to make noise to be heard. Youth must unite and lead large-scale protests to compel the government,” he said.

Widespread Impact in Bikaner

The ongoing Mahapadav has disrupted normal life in Bikaner. Local business organizations have closed markets in solidarity with the movement, and schools—both government and private—are observing half-day closures. Arrangements have been made to provide food for nearly 100,000 people at the Polytechnic College campus. Heavy police deployment and barricades have been put in place to maintain law and order.

Protesters allege that solar power companies in western Rajasthan are cutting Khejri trees on a large scale for new projects, often illegally removing trees at night and burying them. Over the past month, indefinite sit-ins have been held at the Collectorate and Karnisar Bhatiyan, during which several women have fallen ill due to the prolonged protests.

The movement continues to gather momentum as the community calls for immediate amendments to the Khejri Protection Law and stronger enforcement measures.