A leopard attack in Uttarakhand’s Pauri district claimed the life of a little girl on November 3, triggering widespread anger among villagers over repeated wildlife attacks. The incident took place near Khandyusain in Ojli village, where the leopard reportedly dragged the child away from the courtyard of her home. The tragedy was followed by a heated confrontation as angry residents surrounded the vehicle of local BJP MLA Rajkumar Pori, demanding immediate action from the authorities.
Leopard Drags Child Away From Home
According to Forest Department officials, the attack took place at around 6:15 pm on Tuesday evening. The girl, identified as Aarushi, was playing near her home when the leopard attacked and dragged her towards nearby bushes. Her family members and villagers immediately began searching for her. Her body was later recovered from the bushes, approximately 100 to 200 metres from the house.
Angry Villagers Surround MLA’s Vehicle
Following the incident, MLA Rajkumar Pori reached the village to meet the grieving family. However, residents confronted him and raised slogans against the government and the Forest Department. Villagers accused the authorities of failing to take adequate preventive measures despite repeated leopard activity in the area.
In a dramatic moment, an elderly woman climbed onto the bonnet of the MLA’s vehicle as protesters continued demanding answers. Pori remained inside his car while police personnel attempted to control the situation. He was eventually escorted out after the crowd was brought under control.
Forest Department Seeks Action Against Leopard
Garhwal Divisional Forest Officer Mahatim Yadav confirmed that a team had been deployed at the location. He also stated that a letter had been sent to the Chief Wildlife Warden seeking permission to declare the leopard a man-eater.
Villagers demanded immediate action to capture the animal, increased patrolling and stronger safety arrangements in the affected areas.
The incident has once again brought the growing human-wildlife conflict in Uttarakhand into focus, raising concerns over the safety of residents, particularly children, in villages close to forest areas.