Leopard on the Loose: Schools Shut in Uttarakhand After Predator Kills Girl!

NEW TEHRI, UTTARAKHAND – A climate of fear has gripped the Bhilangna area of Uttarakhand after a 13-year-old girl was killed by a man-eating leopard. Following the tragic death, authorities have ordered the closure of all schools in the region as a precautionary measure. Despite efforts by the forest department and professional shooters to capture the animal, the leopard remains at large.

The incident occurred on Saturday evening when Sakshi, a young girl from Kot Maher village, went outside to play near her home. A leopard, lying in wait in the nearby bushes, attacked her, dragging her about 50 meters before neighbors could scare the animal away by shouting. Unfortunately, the girl succumbed to her injuries.

This latest fatality has escalated concerns in the area. Kot Maher’s village head, Surekha Ghanta, noted that this is not the first such attack. In previous months, the leopard has claimed the lives of a 9-year-old girl in Bhond village and a 3-year-old boy in Purwal village.

Also read: Sakshi Malik's Shocking Claim: Babita Phogat Incited Wrestlers for WFI Power Grab!

Leopard Still at Large, Forest Department Intensifies Search

Since the attack, forest officials, led by Divisional Forest Officer Puneet Tomar, have been stationed in the village, using drone cameras and other tools to track the elusive predator. Tomar stated that efforts are ongoing, with forest teams working around the clock to capture the leopard and ensure the safety of local residents.

Additional safety measures have been put in place for the children in remote areas. School transportation is being provided, and vehicles have been rented to ensure their safe commute.

District on Alert, Schools Closed

In response to the escalating danger, Tehri District Magistrate Mayur Dixit has ordered the temporary closure of primary schools in Bhond and Purwal villages, as well as primary and upper primary schools in Anthwal village. Additionally, Anganwadi centers in the area have been closed for three days for safety reasons. Mid-year exams scheduled in these schools have also been postponed.

The forest department has provided the affected family with ₹2 lakh in compensation, deposited directly into their account. Range Officer Ashish Nautiyal reported that additional lighting has been installed in the area to assist in the capture efforts.

As the search continues, the residents of New Tehri are on high alert, hoping the leopard will be captured soon before it claims another life.