Rajasthan: The Congress on Saturday announced the launch of a statewide protest programme in Rajasthan under the banner of the ‘Save Aravalli Campaign’. The announcement was made by Rajasthan Pradesh Congress Committee (PCC) president Govind Singh Dotasra, who accused the BJP-led state government of allowing mining mafias to exploit natural resources in the Aravalli region.
Addressing the issue, Dotasra alleged that the state government has failed to protect the ecologically sensitive Aravalli range and has instead facilitated activities that are causing large-scale environmental damage. He claimed that unchecked mining operations are degrading forest areas, affecting groundwater levels and disturbing the ecological balance of the region.
The Congress leader said the Save Aravalli Campaign would involve protests and public mobilisation across the state. According to him, the objective of the campaign is to draw attention to what the party describes as systematic exploitation of natural resources and to pressure the government to halt activities that threaten the Aravalli ecosystem.
Dotasra alleged that mining mafias have been given a free hand under the current government, leading to widespread destruction. He said this has had direct consequences for local communities, particularly farmers, who are facing difficulties due to environmental degradation. He linked the alleged mining activities to declining agricultural productivity and increased distress among rural populations.
The PCC president also raised concerns about unemployment, stating that environmental damage and policy decisions related to mining have adversely affected sustainable livelihood opportunities. He alleged that instead of promoting long-term employment options, the government’s approach has benefited a select few while harming broader public interests.
Dotasra further accused the BJP government of weakening welfare measures. He claimed that schemes such as the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) have been diluted, impacting rural employment and income security. According to him, the reduction in effective implementation of welfare programmes has compounded the problems faced by marginalised communities.
Another major allegation raised by the Congress leader was related to mining leases. Dotasra claimed that the state government is planning to grant mining leases in the Aravalli region despite scrutiny and concerns raised by the Supreme Court. He said such moves disregard environmental safeguards and legal processes intended to protect sensitive zones.
The Congress has maintained that the Aravalli range plays a critical role in maintaining ecological stability, including acting as a natural barrier against desertification and supporting biodiversity. Dotasra said any decision affecting the region should be taken with caution and in strict compliance with environmental laws.
According to the Congress, the Save Aravalli Campaign will highlight multiple issues, including environmental degradation, farmer distress, unemployment and the alleged rollback of welfare initiatives. Party leaders and workers are expected to participate in demonstrations and awareness programmes across different districts.
Dotasra said the campaign would also focus on holding the government accountable for its actions. He alleged that policy decisions related to mining are being taken without adequate consultation or transparency, leading to long-term consequences for the state’s natural resources.
The Congress leader said the party would continue to raise the issue both on the streets and through political platforms. He asserted that protecting the Aravalli range is essential not only for environmental reasons but also for safeguarding the livelihoods and well-being of future generations.
The BJP government has not responded to the specific allegations made by the Congress in this announcement. Meanwhile, the Save Aravalli Campaign marks the latest political confrontation in Rajasthan over environmental governance and resource management.
With the launch of the campaign, the Congress has signalled its intent to intensify opposition against the state government’s policies related to mining and environmental protection. The party said it would seek public support to press for stronger safeguards for the Aravalli region.
