Bikaner, Feb. 5 -- The indefinite hunger strike demanding legal protection for the culturally vital Khejri tree stretched into its third day on Tuesday in Bikaner, raising alarm over deteriorating protester health and threats of mass escalation if Rajasthan officials do not respond. Protesters accused the government of allowing unchecked felling despite repeated pleas for the tree's legal protection. More than 450 environmental activists, saints and about 50 women pressed on with the demonstration at the public park outside Bishnoi Dharamshala. Some escalated pressure on the administration by chaining themselves to iron railings near the Collectorate. The condition of sant Lal Das, head priest of Dhava Doli Math and one of the hunger strikers, worsened during the day, leading to his admission at PBM Hospital. His hospitalisation has amplified fears, as several protesters have forsaken both food and water. The protest is led by sachchidanand Maharaj, under whose guidance numerous saints are fasting. Addressing the gathering, he accused the government of callous indifference amid the protesters' declining health. He warned the agitation would intensify unless a law safeguarding Khejri trees is enacted. "Announce a clear date for the law, and the hunger strike will end the same day," he said, adding that the protest would escalate without a firm timeline. Organisers vowed the action would remain peaceful until concrete steps are announced. Security has been bolstered, with about 1,500 police personnel deployed outside the Collectorate and Bishnoi Dharamshala to ensure order. Facing swelling crowds and health risks, the administration has begun erecting a temporary 100-bed medical facility at Bishnoi Dharamshala. Health officials noted that more than half the beds are already in place. Protest leaders cautioned that officials are already strained handling the current numbers, warning that nearly 2,900 saints could join if demands for Khejri tree protection go unheeded....