Bhopal, May 24 (IANS) In a tragic incident that has sent shockwaves through the local community in areas near Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve, a woman lost her life in a tiger attack within the Park area in Umaria district of Madhya Pradesh.

Several other individuals also sustained injuries during the encounter that took place in Kherwa Tola village, located inside the protected forest zone.

State Chief Minister Mohan Yadav expressed his heartfelt condolences to the grieving family and announced a compensation of Rs 25 lakh from the state government corpus.

Late Sunday night, a tiger strayed into the residential area of Kherwa Tola in the Panpatha zone of Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve, Umaria district. The tiger entered the house of Phool Bai and attacked her while she was sleeping, killing her on the spot.

Hearing her screams, her husband, father, and father-in-law rushed inside to rescue her, but the tiger also attacked them, leaving all three critically injured. The incident triggered panic and fear across the village.

Demonstrating his commitment to supporting those affected, the Chief Minister also promised to provide free medical treatment along with appropriate compensation to all those injured in the tiger attack.

Taking to social media, CM Mohan Yadav said, “The news of a woman’s death and injuries sustained by several citizens in a tiger attack in Kherwa Tola village – located within the Bandhavgarh National Park area in Umaria district – is deeply distressing. My deepest sympathies go out to the bereaved family members. I have issued directives to provide financial assistance of Rs 25 lakh to the family of the deceased, as well as to ensure free medical treatment and appropriate compensation for the injured. I pray to God for the peace of the departed soul and for the speedy recovery of those injured.”

Bandhavgarh National Park, known for its rich population of tigers and diverse flora and fauna, attracts tourists from across the globe. However, incidents like this remind residents and authorities alike of the delicate balance required between conservation efforts and ensuring the safety of local communities living on the fringes of these protected areas.

Local officials have been instructed to remain vigilant and take necessary measures to prevent future occurrences. Forest department teams are likely to intensify patrolling and awareness campaigns in the surrounding villages to educate people about safety protocols while venturing into or near the forest.

The state government’s response not only offers immediate relief to the affected families but also sends a strong message about prioritising human lives alongside wildlife preservation. This incident has once again brought into focus the need for sustainable coexistence strategies in India’s tiger reserves.

–IANS

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