
Mahadevaswamy (45), a forest watcher, was killed by a wild elephant on Saturday night in the Malai Mahadeshwara Wildlife Sanctuary in Chamarajanagar district. He was on night patrol to track those who…
Mahadevaswamy (45), a forest watcher, was killed by a wild elephant on Saturday night in the Malai Mahadeshwara Wildlife Sanctuary in Chamarajanagar district. He was on night patrol to track those who had cut sandalwood trees two days earlier. The attack occurred in Hanur taluk.
Forest department officials visited the spot and the body was taken to Kollegal hospital. The family will receive temporary compensation of Rs 5 lakh, with full payment after procedures. The government also promised a job to one family member on compassionate grounds.
This death shows the dangers frontline forest staff face every day. While compensation and a job offer are positive steps, narratives often blame either aggressive elephants or poor enforcement. The truth is that patrolling with inadequate protection is the real problem. Will the department now conduct a safety audit and equip staff with better gear and training?
Source: deccanherald.com
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