BARIPADA: Severed legs of a man were discovered on Monday inside the Similipal Tiger Reserve in Mayurbhanj district of Odisha, sending shockwaves through the local community. Villagers allege that the man may have been killed in a tiger attack, though forest officials have stated that the exact cause of death remains unconfirmed.
Details of the Incident
The forest department identified the deceased as Sadhu Naik, a resident of Basantpur village, who had been missing since Sunday, according to a PTI report. Villagers stumbled upon Naik's partial remains, including both legs, in a bushy area near Kumudabadi. Despite extensive search operations, the remaining body parts could not be located, said STR deputy director Ramesh Kumar.
Investigation Underway
Kumar stated, "Preliminary observations have not yielded any conclusive evidence regarding the cause of death. As of now, no pugmarks or other field evidence have been found at the site to establish the involvement of any wild animal." Samples and materials have been collected and sent for laboratory analysis to ascertain the cause of death.
Further investigation is currently underway, and necessary assistance is being provided to the bereaved family, the deputy director added.
Community Concerns
The discovery has sparked fear among villagers, who are concerned about the presence of predators in the area. Forest officials have urged calm and assured that all possible measures are being taken to ensure safety and determine the facts.
This incident highlights the ongoing challenges of human-wildlife conflict in regions near protected reserves. The authorities are working to gather conclusive evidence and provide support to the affected family.
