Bhairana Dham protest suspended after talks with govt

Jaipur: The 41-day-long protest by saints and villagers against the proposed RIICO industrial project and pastureland acquisition at Bhairana Dham in Maujamabad near Jaipur was suspended late Wednesday night after an agreement was reached to constitute a 15-member committee to review the demands.

Following successful negotiations between the administration, saints, villagers and Rashtriya Loktantrik Party (RLP) chief and Nagaur MP Hanuman Beniwal, who reached the protest site in support, an announcement was made to suspend the protest and withdraw the planned march to Jaipur.

Speaking to the media, Beniwal said, “Under the resolution, a 15-member committee will be established to review the project and related issues, with the administration assuring that no construction or tree-cutting will take place for the time being.”

Protesters claimed that the agitation has only been put on hold following positive assurances from the govt and administration, warning that it may resume if the agreed-upon terms are not implemented. “Representatives of the saint community, villagers, administration and concerned departments will be part of the 15-member committee,” they said.

“The newly formed committee will hold its first meeting within seven days and conduct a physical inspection of the disputed land. It will examine the presence of natural rivers, streams, drainage channels and catchment areas,” Beniwal said.

According to officials, the committee will determine whether any natural water bodies or flow channels fall within the proposed project area, as High Court guidelines prohibit their conversion for industrial or commercial purposes.

The issue gained political momentum after Beniwal, along with a large number of supporters, reached the dham and threatened to march to Jaipur. Throughout the day, Bhairana Dham witnessed large gatherings of protesters, prompting the govt to swing into action. A delegation led by district collector Sandesh Nayak held negotiations with the protesters. Barricades were put up on the highway to prevent protesters from proceeding towards Jaipur.

Protesters alleged that the nearly 800-bigha project site has historically served as pastureland, a religious site and a natural water conservation zone, and that industrial development would threaten the environment.

During the protest, while addressing the gathering, Beniwal called Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma the head of a “foolish cabinet.” Responding to the remark, Rajasthan minister of state for home Jawahar Singh Bedham said, “Beniwal appeared to be making such statements under intoxication and, as an MP, should maintain the dignity of his position.”