Human-elephant conflict escalates in Jharkhand; five people killed in a week, two elephants found dead
Human‑elephant conflict is getting worse in Jharkhand, with five people killed by elephants in the past week and two elephants found dead under mysterious conditions.
In a recent incident, a herd of about 15 elephants pressed into Kharkanda village in Bokaro district at around 11 p.m. and roamed the area for several hours. The animals ran over 45‑year‑old Sanjho Devi, who died, and tore through 25‑30 houses. Cars and a motorbike parked outside homes were smashed, and food stores were raided. Villagers said the attack was sudden and fierce, forcing many to climb roofs to escape. The forest department arrived to find the damage already done, worth thousands of rupees. Residents now demand quick compensation and stronger protection.
Earlier in the week, two men—Prakash Mahato and Charku Mahato—were trampled to death by a different herd near the Tilaiya underground railway crossing. Another victim, 43‑year‑old Nakul Oraon of Mahua Patra village in Chatra district, died the same day after an elephant attack. On Saturday, 40‑year‑old farmer Chhotan Munda of Lurungi village in Ranchi district was trampled while trying to scare off a wild elephant. Villagers blocked NH‑75 to demand a government job for Munda’s family and compensation. The blockade ended after the forest department gave Rs 25,000 and promised further action.
On Friday, two dead female elephants—one pregnant—were discovered in Juginanda Tola, West Singhbhum district. Villagers smelled the foul odor before finding the carcasses. Ranger Jitendra Prasad Singh said it’s unclear why the elephants died, but tests suggest they may have died two to three days earlier. Tracks in nearby fields and forests indicate a passing herd. Post‑mortems are underway, and organ samples have been sent for forensic analysis.
The surge in elephant attacks and the mysterious deaths of the elephants have raised fresh alarm in Jharkhand’s wildlife and forestry circles. The forest department is under pressure to step up safety measures and support affected families while ensuring the coexistence of humans and elephants in the region.
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