Final answer:
The villagers were protesting against the environmental impact caused by the exploitation of mineral resources.
Step-by-step explanation:
The villagers were protesting against the environmental impact caused by the exploitation of mineral resources. Mining and oil and gas extraction can have severe environmental consequences such as pollution, deforestation, and habitat loss. These activities can harm ecosystems, contaminate water supplies, and lead to soil erosion. The protests were a response to the negative effects on the environment caused by the exploitation of mineral resources.