Rajasthan Saints Stage Agnitap Protest Against Land Acquisition
saints from the Dadu sect are performing "Agnitap" in protest against the Rajasthan State Industrial Development and Investment Corporation (RIICO) acquiring land adjacent to Bhairana Dham, a sacred site.
The Protest
The saints' Agnitap commences at 10:00 AM each morning since April 15. Along with saints, the villagers are also staging the protest against the acquisition.
- The protest site is approximately 50 kilometres from Jaipur.
- The saints are sitting amidst burning fires in scorching temperatures of 40 degrees Celsius.
The Disputed Land
The saints of the Dadu sect assert that this land serves as the Moksha Sthali (site of spiritual liberation) of Saint Dadu Dayal.
- The site serves as a place where Dadu Panthi ascetics attain Samadhi (final spiritual absorption).
- A temple of Saint Dadu Dayal is at the site, where devotees from across the country come every year.
The Villagers' Concerns
The villagers are protesting against the acquisition of the forest land, which has resulted in the felling of thousands of trees.
- The land has been transformed from a lush green forest into a barren wasteland.
Government Response
Deputy Chief Minister Premchand Bairwa visited the protest site a few days ago and appealed to the protesters to call off the demonstration.
The Ultimatum
The saints have issued an ultimatum to the government, setting a deadline of May 2 to decide on their demand.
- If a decisive resolution is not reached by that date, a large-scale mass movement will be launched.
Next Steps
The Bhairana Dham Sangharsh Samiti is planning to take the matter to the National Green Tribunal (NGT) as well.
Also, the site designated for the Investment Zone is surrounded by the ranges of the Aravalli Mountains.
Key Figures
- Saint Ramratandas of Bhairana Dham: "This site is a sacred place of Moksha (salvation) and spiritual practice for the Dadu sect."
- Saint Govind Das: "If a decisive resolution is not reached by that date, a large-scale mass movement will be launched."