Jaipur, Dec. 24 -- The Congress on Tuesday accused the BJP-led state and central governments of an alleged well-planned conspiracy to open the Aravalli range for large-scale mining and "loot" the country's mineral wealth. Rajasthan Congress president Govind Singh Dotasra and Leader of Opposition Tikaram Jully addressed a joint press conference at the state Congress headquarters, criticising chief minister Bhajan Lal Sharma, Union minister Bhupender Yadav, and the BJP government's "contradictory" statements on the issue. Dotasra accused the Centre and the state government of colluding to facilitate mining in the Aravallis after "taking money from private companies". Taking a jibe at the BJP, he said the party "talks about catching crocodiles" in paper leak cases and claims to act against big players in the Jal Jeevan Mission, "but the reality is evident to all". He alleged that the BJP regime was enabling large-scale deals between officials and mining mafias. He further claimed that since coming to power, the BJP had "misused constitutional institutions and worked in favour of mafias". "This government is operating like an organised syndicate to loot the country's mineral resources. The latest move on the Aravalli is part of that conspiracy," he said. Dotasra alleged that a report submitted to the Supreme Court under central pressure revealed plans to devastate nearly 90 per cent of the Aravalli range in the name of mining. Describing it as Rajasthan's "lifeline", he said it was vital for environmental balance, prevention of dust storms, religious faith, and the livelihood of farmers and herders. "A deliberate conspiracy is underway to destroy it," he said. Rejecting the government's claim that only 0.91 per cent of forest land would be opened for mining, Dotasra said preparations were on to hand over around 68,000 acres to the mining department. Referring to the BJP's 2023 manifesto, he said the party had promised a "green corridor" to protect the Aravalli but was now discussing a "mining corridor". He alleged that "just as money was raised through electoral bonds, funds are now being collected from mining mafias". "The BJP talks about Sanatan values but has no concern for religious sites or geography," he added. Announcing an agitation, Dotasra said resentment was rising across 19 districts. The Congress would launch an Aravalli Bachao Abhiyan alongside protests against the weakening of MGNREGA, including demonstrations and awareness drives to urge the Centre to move the Supreme Court and enact a law to protect the Aravalli. "The agitation will continue until Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma or Prime Minister Narendra Modi gives a clear answer," he said. Jully questioned the CM's assurance that he would not allow harm to the Aravalli. "Has the Almighty personally authorised you?" he asked, adding that the CM had failed to explain how the range would be protected. "Will you go to court? What is the concrete plan?" Jully asked. He also accused Bhupender Yadav of reopening more than 50 mines in the Sariska region-a move halted only by the Supreme Court. "From day one, the BJP's intentions have been clear," he said, adding that even ruling-party members had alleged corruption worth crores, with complaints reaching the Prime Minister's Office. Jully noted that even 0.91 per cent of the mining area meant a "massive 68,000 sq m". "When tumblers and cars are being restricted in Delhi due to pollution, why is the Aravalli-which checks pollution, conserves water, and prevents desertification-being treated this way?" he asked....