An 80-year-old farmer, Khena Majhi, tragically lost his life in a wild elephant attack while returning home from his fields around 3 PM.
The incident occurred in Thokar village under Hindol subdivision, marking the first fatal elephant-related death in the village this year.
Eyewitnesses report that elephants have not only ravaged crops and destroyed solar fencing but have also entered homes to consume cooked food. More than 200 elephants are said to be roaming freely across Hindol subdivision, sparking widespread alarm.
Forest officials reached the spot and coordinated with Balimi police, who transferred the deceased’s body for post-mortem examination. Following local outrage, authorities assured swift compensation and assistance to the bereaved family, temporarily calming tensions in the village.
Community members have warned of potential protests unless the government enacts immediate and meaningful interventions to safeguard lives and livelihoods from future wildlife threats.
