What Happened to a 7-Year-Old Boy in Sawai Madhopur?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Tragic incident involving a 7-year-old boy.
- Leopard attack raises wildlife safety concerns.
- Community and family demand support and action.
- Authorities are addressing the situation.
- Need for effective wildlife management strategies.
Jaipur, Dec 11 (NationPress) A tragic incident occurred when a 7-year-old boy lost his life due to a leopard attack near the Atila Balaji temple in Ranthambore, Sawai Madhopur, on Thursday.
The victim, Vikram Banjara, was walking with his father when a leopard unexpectedly emerged from the bushes near a handpump, seized him by the neck, and pulled him away.
According to his father, the child was snatched by the leopard, a claim confirmed by the Forest Department. Overwhelmed by the suddenness of the attack, the father called for help. Residents from the nearby Banjara settlement hurried to the scene and attempted to scare off the leopard by throwing stones into the bushes. After a thorough search, the boy's body was discovered deep within the forest.
This incident occurred close to a settlement where approximately 25-30 families reside. Following the attack, the family declined to accept the boy's body. Collector Kanaram and SP Anil Kumar Beniwal arrived at the scene in an effort to persuade the family.
Vikram’s father, Ramjilal Banjara, recounted, “My son was walking beside me. He fell a little behind, and suddenly a leopard emerged from the bushes, took him in its jaws, and ran away. I chased after it, shouting for help.”
Witnesses reported that the leopard dragged the child approximately 150 meters into the vegetation.
DFO Manas Singh remarked, “This is a heartbreaking incident. The family will receive all necessary support from the government. It is unequivocal that the attack was executed by a leopard, as the child was taken from near the handpump adjacent to the temple.”
Collector Kanaram stated after meeting the family at the mortuary that the administration is devoted to providing every possible assistance.
However, the family contends that there is a dispute with the Forest Department regarding the construction of a wall in the vicinity and claims the department is attempting to impose it forcibly.
Officer Madanlal Meena from the Kotwali Police Station has arrived at the scene, and efforts are ongoing to calm the family.