Elephant Attack in Hindol: Farmer Killed Amid Wildlife Surge in Odisha

Thokar, Hindol – July 13,(OT Webdesk): In a tragic incident that has intensified concerns over Odisha’s escalating human-wildlife conflict, 80-year-old farmer Khena Majhi was fatally attacked by a wild elephant while returning from his fields on Sunday afternoon.

The attack occurred around 3 PM in Thokar village, marking the first fatality of its kind in the region this year.

Locals report that elephant herds have increasingly encroached into human settlements, damaging crops, tearing through solar fencing, and even raiding homes for food.

Over 200 elephants are believed to be roaming freely across Hindol subdivision, heightening fear and disrupting rural livelihoods.

Forest department officials, accompanied by Balimi police, reached the site swiftly and transferred Majhi’s body for post-mortem.

In response to public outrage, authorities have assured prompt compensation for the bereaved family.

However, residents warn of looming protests unless immediate protective measures are implemented.

This tragic event echoes a broader pattern of wildlife encroachment in Odisha, placing pressure on government agencies to intervene decisively and prevent further loss of life.