Jaipur, Apr 16 (PTI) A march seeking protection of Rajasthan’s traditional grazing lands and forest patches, known as ‘oran’, was stopped by police in Jaipur on Thursday, leading to a brief scuffle, officials said.
The ‘Oran Bachao Padyatra’, which began on January 21 from Tanot Mata Temple in Jaisalmer, reached the Bhawani Niketan area on Sikar Road, where police stopped the marchers from proceeding toward the chief minister’s residence.
Hundreds of people from across the state took part in the padyatra to demand conservation of oran land, grazing areas and local ecology.
Independent MLA Ravindra Singh Bhati, who was part of the march, criticised the state government, alleging a lack of clear policy on protecting such lands.
“A large portion of oran land is not recorded in revenue records, leading to rising encroachments. Farmers in border areas are also facing difficulties, but there is no clear guideline from the government,” Bhati said.
He also alleged that the government was not taking encroachment by large companies seriously and flagged delays in bringing a bill related to the protection of the ‘khejri’ tree.
Marchers said they walked in extreme heat to raise awareness about the need to conserve oran land, grazing fields, the ‘khejri’ tree, and water bodies such as rivers and ponds.
Slogans for environmental protection were raised during the march, with participants warning of a larger agitation if their demands are not addressed soon.
Police said the situation was under control and there were no major injuries during the confrontation. PTI AG VN VN
This report is auto-generated from PTI news service. ThePrint holds no responsibility for its content.