Elephant Attack in Sambalpur Sparks Villagers’ Protest
Sambalpur, Odisha: Tragedy struck Kumer village in Jujumura block early Wednesday morning when a wild elephant attacked and killed 38‑year‑old Lab Bhoi.
The incident occurred around 5:30 a.m. as Bhoi went to a pond for sanitation.
Eyewitnesses reported that the elephant dragged him with its trunk and crushed him, leading to his instant death.
Forest officials and police rushed to the site soon after the attack.
However, the incident sparked strong protests among villagers, who refused to allow removal of the body until authorities provided written assurance of safety measures.
The villagers demanded installation of solar fencing and solar lights around the settlement to deter elephants.
They urged the Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) to visit the village and commit to concrete arrangements.
Residents highlighted that repeated elephant attacks have endangered lives and property in the region, pressing for long‑term preventive steps to ensure safety.
