Barmer, Aug. 5 -- The "illegal" felling of Khejri trees, considered to be the lifeline of the Thar Desert, by solar power companies in Barmer has triggered widespread outrage, leading to massive protests in Bariyara and Khodal villages in Sheo subdivision for past four months. On Sunday, Sheo MLA Ravindra Singh Bhati joined the protesters and vowed to fight until strict action is taken against those responsible. He confronted Ramser circle officer Manaram Garg, questioning the police's inaction despite fires burning throughout the night. "Where were your patrols? Are the police vehicles only for show? Thousands of Khejri trees have been destroyed right under your nose," Bhati lashed out. Speaking to protesters, Bhati accused the solar companies of trampling environmental laws for profit and slammed the administration for siding with corporations. "Khejri is not just a tree. It is the lifeline of the Thar Desert and part of Rajasthan's cultural heritage. Destroying it is a crime against nature and the people. This will not be tolerated," he said. "I will tell the government that while they promote schemes to plant a single tree in the name of one's mother, here thousands of Khejri trees are being destroyed right under the administration's nose," he added. The controversy intensified after purported videos circulated on social media reportedly showed Khejri trees being uprooted with JCB machines and loaded onto tractors. According to the locals, the felled trees were set on fire by company officials to erase evidence. The locals claimed that the companies involved are setting up solar power plants on leased land in the area. They further said that the project has encroached upon Khadeen land which is a unique desert ecosystem vital for rainwater harvesting, wildlife, and local greenery. Responding to the escalating tension, Sheo sub-divisional officer Yaksh Chaudhary said: "They are protesting against the solar power companies and the felling of Khejri trees. We have taken serious note of their concerns and have ordered a probe into the matter. Action will be taken accordingly."...