Jaipur (Rajasthan) [India], June 7 (ANI): Congress leader Sachin Pilot on Saturday expressed support for the youth protesting against the proposed felling of nearly 2,500 trees at Dol Ka Badh in Jaipur. Pilot clarified that the demonstrators are not opposed to development but prioritise the protection of nature, the environment, and wildlife.

Addressing the young protesters there, the Congress leader urged the state government to take a softer approach and engage in dialogue.

Pilot's remarks come amidst growing opposition to the state government's plan to clear the forested areas for major development projects.

'I have spoken to all the people here. Everyone here says that we are not against development; they want investments and support for the government's scheme. But they believe that, which I also agree with, if we can protect nature, the environment, and animals, then that should be our first priority,' Pilot stated.

'I think the government should adopt a soft attitude on this and should communicate... I am with the passion of the youth who are here to protect the ecosystem and ecology,' he added.

His comments align with the Adivasi Congress's stance, which described Dol Ka Badh as 'not just a forest but a symbol of biodiversity, traditional lifestyle and environmental balance', warning that destroying it for projects like the PM Unity Mall threatens future generations.

'ONCE THE TREES ARE GONE, THERE'S NO GOING BACK-- SAVE DOL KA BADH! They're cutting centuries of life for concrete dreams. Jaipur stands for green. Jaipur stands for Dol Ka Badh,' Adivasi Congress stated in a post on X.

'Dol Ka Baad' is not just a forest but a symbol of biodiversity, traditional lifestyle and environmental balance. If the government is hell-bent on destroying lush green forests in the name of projects like PM Unity Mall, it is not only a threat to the environment but also to future generations,' Adivasi Congress further added in another post. (ANI)