Tragic Leopard Attack Claims Life of 10-Year-Old Boy in Panna Tiger Reserve Buffer Zone
A heartbreaking incident unfolded in the buffer zone of Panna Tiger Reserve (PTR) in Madhya Pradesh, where a 10-year-old boy lost his life in a leopard attack. The tragic event has sent shockwaves through local communities, raising serious questions about the adequacy of forest patrolling in fringe areas, according to officials who confirmed the details on Friday.
Details of the Tragic Incident
The attack occurred on Thursday night in Jardhoba village, located within the sensitive buffer zone of the tiger reserve. The victim has been identified as Shree Dev, a young student studying in Class II. Sources close to the investigation revealed that the boy was on an errand to deliver food to his grandparents at a nearby hut while his parents were occupied with guarding their agricultural fields.
During his journey, the child was ambushed by the leopard and dragged towards a tree, as confirmed by both police and forest department officials. When Shree Dev failed to return home after an extended period, his concerned family initiated an extensive search operation. The grim discovery was made early Friday morning when his mutilated body was found beneath a tree in close proximity to the family fields, prompting immediate notification of the forest authorities.
Communication Gap and Family Tragedy
Adding to the tragedy was a heartbreaking misunderstanding within the family. The boy's parents assumed their son had decided to stay overnight with his grandparents, while the grandparents believed he had safely returned to his parents' home. This communication gap delayed the realization that something was terribly wrong, highlighting the sudden and unexpected nature of the attack.
Villagers Express Concerns Over Forest Patrolling
Local residents have voiced significant concerns, stating that wild animal attacks are not uncommon in the region. Villagers specifically alleged that forest patrolling in the buffer zone and adjoining villages has been inadequate, leaving communities vulnerable to such dangerous encounters. The incident has triggered widespread panic not only in Jardhoba village but also in neighboring hamlets, with residents fearing for their safety.
Official Response and Preventive Measures
Forest officials conducting the preliminary investigation indicated that evidence strongly suggests the child was killed by a leopard. In response to the tragedy, authorities have initiated the process to provide compensation to the next of kin according to government norms. More importantly, officials have announced that patrolling is being intensified in villages located within the buffer zone as well as those adjoining the reserve.
Local representatives have received instructions to remain alert and actively assist in spreading awareness among residents about wildlife safety. Forest department officials are considering additional preventive measures, including enhanced night surveillance and issuing cautionary advisories to villagers, to prevent similar tragic incidents in the future. The department emphasizes its commitment to balancing wildlife conservation with community safety in these sensitive buffer areas.
