An eight-year-old boy lost his life after being attacked by a leopard near the Katarniaghat Wildlife Sanctuary, officials said on Saturday. The incident triggered protests from villagers who demanded stronger measures to prevent wildlife attacks in the area.
According to officials, the incident occurred on Friday evening in Karikot village under the Nishangarha forest range. The child, identified as Raghuveer, was reportedly playing outside his house when a leopard suddenly emerged from a nearby wheat field and attacked him at around 7 pm.
Divisional Forest Officer Apoorva Dixit said the animal dragged the boy for some distance before villagers raised an alarm and chased it away. The leopard fled back into the fields, but the child had suffered severe injuries.
Family members immediately rushed the boy to a nearby government hospital, where doctors declared him brought dead.
Forest department officials reached the village soon after receiving information about the incident and worked to calm angry residents who gathered in protest following the attack.
Authorities have since increased surveillance in the area and deployed forest department teams to monitor the movement of the leopard. Villagers have also been advised to remain alert, particularly during evening hours, and avoid stepping out alone.
Officials have sought approval from senior authorities to install a cage near the village to capture the leopard. If permission is granted, the cage is expected to be set up by late Saturday night.
Meanwhile, the boy’s body has been sent for a post-mortem examination. The victim’s family has received immediate financial assistance of ₹10,000, and officials said steps are underway to provide the government compensation of ₹5 lakh.
Police personnel have also been stationed in the village to maintain order. Some residents alleged that frequent power cuts during the evening hours were making the area vulnerable, as darkness encourages wild animals to stray into human settlements.