Protests Erupt in Rajasthan Against Aravalli Mining Approval

A protest spread statewide in various Rajasthan districts on Monday following the sanction of mining activities in the Aravalli mountain range. Demonstrations occurred in Udaipur, Jodhpur, Sikar, Alwar, and other cities, leading to clashes between protesters and police at multiple sites. In Udaipur, Congress workers and members of social organizations protested at the Collectorate, with slogans raised against the decision, resulting in a scuffle with the police. Several activists were detained to maintain order. Protesters from different groups demanded the reversal of the court order and threatened escalated agitation.
In Sikar, environmentalists and residents gathered at Harsh Parvat, 945 meters above sea level, to oppose mining in the Aravalli range, urging the government to revoke the decision promptly to protect the delicate ecosystem. Meanwhile, in Jodhpur, NSUI workers breached police barricades during a protest, leading to police using force to disperse the crowd. In Alwar, Leader of the Opposition Tika Ram Jully strongly criticized the decision, referring to the Aravalli range as the “lungs of Rajasthan.” Jully insisted on the withdrawal of the decision, warning of a significant protest if the government fails to act.
As per a Supreme Court order from November 20, 2025, landforms with an elevation of 100 meters or more will be classified as Aravalli hills, excluding over 90% of the range from protection, causing widespread concern among environmentalists. Jully accused the government of endangering Rajasthan’s natural heritage and vowed to continue opposing the move. Environmental activist Pawan Dhaka raised concerns about the impact on wildlife if the Aravalli range is harmed, questioning where the animals would go.
Union Minister Bhupendra Yadav addressed the situation regarding the Aravalli mountain range in a letter titled “Ek Patti Alwar Ke Naam,” ensuring the range’s safety and emphasizing the Supreme Court’s decision aimed at balancing environmental protection, curbing illegal mining, and meeting developmental needs. Yadav highlighted Alwar’s significance within the Aravalli mountain range, home to vital natural and heritage sites like the Sariska Tiger Reserve and Siliserh Lake, stressing that conservation and development of these areas are non-negotiable. The minister reiterated the government’s commitment to preserving the ecological balance of the Aravalli region while promoting lawful and sustainable development.