The Rajasthan BJP President, Vasundhara Raje Scindia, has asked the Chief Minister, Ashok Gehlot, to protect the forests by bringing in more stringent legislation. The forests were destroyed in Rajasthan due to the laxity of the Department concerned and the connivance of officials with those indulging in felling of trees, she charged in a statement. Ms. Scindia sought action against the Forest Department officials and staff who were party to large scale felling of trees in the State. She charged the Forest Minister with not taking interest in the protection of forests.