Bengaluru Zoo Keeper Survives Second Animal Attack, Family Demands Government Support
A routine morning shift turned into a terrifying ordeal for Shanthappa, a 50-year-old animal keeper at the Bannerghatta Biological Park (BBP) rescue centre in Bengaluru. The incident occurred on Friday when the veteran employee, who has served the park for over two decades on a contract basis, was performing his regular duties.
Leopard Attack During Cleaning Procedure
Shanthappa had reported to work as usual and began his tasks by transferring a leopard to an adjacent makeshift cage to facilitate the cleaning process. Despite following standard safety protocols, the unpredictable nature of wild animals manifested when the leopard suddenly thrust its paw through the iron mesh barrier.
The animal clawed Shanthappa on his cheek and neck, causing immediate injuries. Bleeding profusely, the keeper managed to raise an alarm, alerting his colleagues who quickly intervened to pull him out of the dangerous enclosure.
Emergency Response and Medical Treatment
Colleagues promptly transported Shanthappa to a hospital in Jigani for emergency medical attention. BBP officials confirmed that while the injuries were serious, they were not life-threatening. Executive Director AV Surya Sen provided reassurance about Shanthappa's condition, stating the keeper is now stable and receiving appropriate care.
Second Survival from Animal Attack
This frightening episode marks the second time Shanthappa has survived an animal attack at Bannerghatta Biological Park. Family members revealed that in 2006, he was attacked by a gaur (Indian bison) and miraculously survived that encounter as well.
His wife expressed deep concern about her husband's working conditions, stating: "He has worked for over two decades as a contract worker without job security. The government must support our family." This statement highlights the precarious employment situation faced by many wildlife facility workers across India.
Official Response and Wildlife Expert Perspectives
Park officials described the incident as unfortunate, noting that it occurred despite adherence to established safety measures. Wildlife activists emphasized that the attack underscores a fundamental truth about working with wild animals: even in controlled environments, their behavior remains inherently unpredictable.
The episode has sparked discussions about:
- The safety protocols for animal handlers
- Job security for contract workers in wildlife facilities
- The inherent risks of working with captive wild animals
- Support systems for employees injured on duty
As Shanthappa recovers from his injuries, his family's plea for government support and better employment conditions resonates with broader concerns about worker welfare in India's wildlife conservation sector.
