Student Leader Nirmal Chaudhary to Launch 1,000-km Foot March to Save Aravalli Range

Jaipur, Rajasthan:
The movement to protect the Aravalli mountain range in Rajasthan is set to intensify as prominent student leader Nirmal Chaudhary has announced a 1,000-kilometre foot march starting December 24. The march will begin from Mount Abu and aims to mobilise public opinion against what activists describe as the dilution of the legal definition of the Aravallis.

The announcement comes amid widespread protests across districts including Sikar, Jhunjhunu, Barmer, and Alwar, following a recent Supreme Court verdict based on a report submitted by the central government. The decision has drawn strong criticism from the Congress and several civil society groups, who accuse the Centre of weakening environmental safeguards.

Who Is Nirmal Chaudhary?

Nirmal Chaudhary is a well-known student leader from Dhamania village near Merta in Nagaur district. He rose to prominence after being elected President of Rajasthan University Students’ Union three years ago. Since then, student union elections have remained suspended, first under the previous Congress government and continuing thereafter.

Though not currently holding a formal position in any political party, Chaudhary remains highly visible in public life. He is known for leading protests on issues related to students, farmers, and social justice, frequently confronting the government over alleged administrative apathy.

Strong Youth Support Base

Despite serving only a one-year term as students’ union president, Chaudhary continues to command strong support among the youth. His followers have been visible in multiple protests, including demonstrations following the suspicious death of Dr Rakesh Bishnoi in Jodhpur and a tragic accident at a government school in Jhalawar, where he personally extended financial assistance to affected families—an act that also sparked political controversy.

From Independent Leader to NSUI

In 2022, Chaudhary contested the Rajasthan University elections as an independent candidate and defeated both NSUI and ABVP nominees. Two years later, he formally joined the NSUI and was appointed National Election In-Charge, further strengthening his political footprint.

Luxury Vehicle Controversy

In February 2025, Chaudhary drew attention after purchasing a luxury Land Rover Defender, leading to questions about how a leader from a modest farming and teaching family could afford such an expensive vehicle. Despite criticism, he continues to travel with supporters in a convoy of premium vehicles.

Confrontational Politics and Direct Challenge to PM

Known for his aggressive protest style, Chaudhary has often clashed with police and administrative officials, with several such confrontations going viral on social media. In videos announcing the Aravalli march, he has directly targeted Prime Minister Narendra Modi, warning that any attempt to harm the Aravalli range would face massive resistance.

“Before attacking the Aravallis, you will have to silence thousands and lakhs of warriors like us,” he declared.

With the foot march set to begin, political observers believe the Aravalli issue could emerge as a major flashpoint in Rajasthan’s environmental and political discourse in the coming weeks.