Bihar: Farmer killed in tiger attack in Valmiki Reserve

Patna, Aug 15 (IANS) A 45‑year‑old farmer, Vijay Haldar, was killed in a tiger attack within the Valmikinagar forest range of Valmiki Tiger Reserve (VTR) on Saturday, triggering anger among villagers and disrupting traffic on the Valmikinagar‑Bagaha main road.

Vijay Haldar was working in his field near Dakshin Tola, close to Bhedihari Chowk, at around 11 am when a tiger emerged from the forest and attacked him. He died at the spot.

Following the incident, a large number of villagers gathered at the site and accused the Forest Department of failing to take adequate safety measures despite alleged tiger movement near the settlement in recent days.

The protesters placed Vijay Haldar’s body on the Valmikinagar‑Bagaha road, bringing traffic to a standstill and resulting in long queues of vehicles.

Tensions escalated during the protest, with reports that villagers overturned a Forest Department vehicle and allegedly assaulted a forest guard.

After receiving information about the protest, SDM Chandni Kumari, SDPO Nihar Bhushan and SSB Assistant Commandant Awadhesh Kumar reached the location along with police and armed personnel. Teams from Valmikinagar, Naurangia and Laukeriya police stations were also deployed to control the situation.

Officials held discussions with the protesters and assured them that their demands would be considered. The Forest Department subsequently assured the family of compensation according to applicable rules and said steps would be initiated regarding employment for a family member, following which the villagers lifted the blockade.

Valmikinagar Ranger Satyam Kumar said the deceased’s family would receive compensation as per government provisions and that the process for employing a Forest Department employee would be initiated. He added that a combing operation was underway to track the tiger.

Forest personnel are searching the area and monitoring the animal’s movements to prevent further attacks.

Vijay Haldar’s death has intensified concerns among residents living around the tiger reserve.

Around 15 days earlier, a tiger reportedly attacked 62‑year‑old farmer Aklu Yadav while he was grazing goats. He sustained serious injuries and later died during treatment.

Earlier, a woman working in a paddy field in Naurangia village, adjacent to VTR, was also killed in a tiger attack.

–IANS

ajk/dan