A leopard has thrown Hamidpur in village Sarpataha, under the Ramgaon police station area of Bahraich district in Uttar Pradesh, into a state of panic. The wild animal entered the settlement without warning and attacked 8 people in quick succession, injuring both men and women. All the injured were rushed to a nearby hospital, where doctors say one person remains in a serious condition while the other seven have been declared out of danger. Fear has gripped the entire village and surrounding areas, with residents afraid to step outside their homes.
Woman Working in the Fields Was the First Target
According to villagers, the leopard first lunged at a woman who was working in the field. When those nearby heard her cries and ran to help, the leopard turned on them as well, attacking one person after another without retreating. The total number of injured reached 8 as a result of this chain of attacks. The incident triggered immediate chaos at the scene, and the atmosphere of dread spread quickly to Hamidpur and neighbouring villages. All injured persons were transported to hospital without delay for treatment.
Leopard Attacks Forest Watcher Rahul From Banana Field Hideout
As soon as word of the attack spread, a Forest Department team comprising the DFO and a Ranger arrived at the spot with a cage. However, the leopard had concealed itself inside a banana field and launched an attack on Forest Department watcher Rahul, striking him on the head from that hiding spot. This added another name to the list of injured and made the capture operation significantly more difficult. The Forest Department has nonetheless set up a cage at the location and the drive to trap the leopard is continuing. Residents have been urged to stay alert and to avoid going to the fields alone under any circumstances.
Police on Duty, Villagers Mount Their Own Guard
A large crowd gathered at the scene following the attacks, and police forces were deployed to control the situation and maintain order. Villagers have also taken protective action themselves, forming groups armed with sticks and standing guard around the fields to prevent the leopard from attacking anyone else. All residents of Hamidpur and the surrounding villages have been advised to exercise maximum caution. The tension and fear in the area are expected to persist until the leopard is successfully trapped and removed.
