In the wake of a tragic elephant death within the Kamakhyanagar West Range, the Odisha Forest Department has initiated strict disciplinary action, suspending two frontline officials for alleged dereliction of duty.
The suspended personnel have been identified as Subhendu Bhuyan, Forester of the Anlabereni Section, and Manasmita Baral, Forest Guard of the Kadalipal Beat. According to departmental sources, the action was taken following a preliminary inquiry that pointed toward severe lapses and negligence in monitoring wildlife safety within their respective jurisdictions.
Meanwhile, the investigation has also led to a breakthrough on the ground. Authorities have arrested a local resident, identified as Kumar Naik of Godribili village, in connection with the incident. Law enforcement and forest officials are conducting a thorough probe to ascertain the exact cause of the elephant’s death and to determine if further arrests are warranted.
The incident has once again brought elephant conservation and monitoring protocols in Odisha’s forest ranges under intense scrutiny, with wildlife activists demanding stricter surveillance and accountability to prevent recurring casualties.
