Bikaner: The “Save Khejri” movement in Bikaner has reached a critical juncture, with protesters intensifying their hunger strike over the past four days. On Thursday, the situation turned tense when Environment Minister K.K. Bishnoi visited the site, and two hunger strikers—including Mukhram Dharaniya and a female activist—collapsed on stage. Currently, 18 protesters are receiving treatment at a temporary medical facility.
The hunger strike, which began on February 2 at the Polytechnic College ground, has now gained support from environmentalists across Rajasthan, Haryana, Punjab, Gujarat, and Madhya Pradesh, putting significant pressure on the government to respond to the activists’ demands.
Chaos on Stage as Protesters Collapse
Around 11 AM, as Minister Bishnoi and Jaswant Bishnoi, Chairman of the State Animal Welfare Board, arrived at the Dharamshala where the protest was underway, slogans of “Save Khejri” echoed throughout the venue. During the proceedings, Mukhram Dharaniya and a female protester suddenly fainted on the stage. Both were immediately moved to a temporary hospital set up at the site.
Health Deteriorating, Resolve Unshaken
According to CMHO Pukhraj Saadh, the health of the hunger strikers is deteriorating. While 18 protesters are currently admitted in the temporary facility, four critically ill activists were transferred to PBM Hospital. Despite physical weakness, the protesters remain resolute in their demands.
Mass Support from Five States
What began as a local demonstration has transformed into a wider public movement, with environmentalists and women from multiple states joining the cause. The collective demand is clear: the Khejri tree, the cornerstone of the desert ecosystem, must not be sacrificed in the name of development. The presence of the minister has sparked hope for a concrete government response, but the atmosphere at the protest site remains highly charged and emotional.
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