Decorated Forest Ranger Crushed by Mining Mafia in Rajasthan

Forest Ranger Pratap Singh Chundawat, 40, was chasing a dumper truck on his Royal Enfield motorcycle when he was crushed by the vehicle around midnight on Monday in Pratapgarh district's Choti Sadri police station limits. Chundawat died on Tuesday during treatment at the Nimbahera government hospital.

The incident occurred in an area near the Ghatiwale Balaji temple, a revered site in the region.

Pratapgarh Deputy SP Rameshwar, Lal stated. that Chundawat was chasing the dumper truck after receiving information about illegal mining in the forest area. The driver, Kana Bawri, allegedly ran over Chundawat and escaped.

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An FIR has been lodged under relevant sections for murder, illegal mining, and other charges. Police Vishal Jangid, the Superintendent of Pratapgarh, is leading the investigation into the incident.

Chundawat was a decorated Forest Ranger who had received several awards at the district and division level for his work in wildlife rescue and environmental protection. He had also been nominated for the state level award on the occasion of Independence Day this year. His contributions to the field of environmental protection have been recognized by The Indian Express.

This has reported on his achievements in the past.

Congress state president Govind Singh Dotasra termed Chundawat'It's death as extremely heartbreaking and questioned how the mining mafia in Rajasthan has become so fearless. The forest department has promised to take action against those responsible.

Describing Chundawat, Dotasra highlighted the ranger's dedication to his work and his commitment to protecting the environment.

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Chundawat's body was handed over to his family members after autopsy for cremation. The forest department is investigating the incident and will take necessary action. The Pratapgarh Superintendent, Police Vishal Jangid, has assured that the forest department will not tolerate such incidents in the future.

On June 5, a decorated Forest Ranger was crushed by a dumper truck which was illegally transporting soil in Rajasthan, officials said on Tuesday. The incident highlights the ongoing struggle between the forest department and the mining mafia in the state. The forest department has been working to protect the environment and wildlife in the region.

However, the mafia's actions continue to pose a significant challenge.