Rajasthan: A wave of fear grips the Udayapura region of Rajasthan as a cheetah continues to terrorize local residents, leading to a tragic incident where a temple priest was killed. This recent attack marks the seventh death attributed to cheetah encounters in just 11 days.
Details of the Incident
The victim, 65-year-old priest Vishnugiri, was sleeping near a temple in the Gogunda area when the cheetah struck. Witnesses report that the leopard dragged him into a nearby forest, with his body later discovered approximately 150 meters from the temple on Monday morning.
Rising Concern Among Locals
The increasing frequency of these attacks has left the community in a state of panic. Residents are terrified to leave their homes, prompting local schools to close their doors for safety. In response, authorities have advised villagers to remain indoors after dark and to venture out only in groups, equipped with sticks or other forms of protection.
Authorities’ Response
Despite the establishment of traps and monitoring efforts by police and forest officials, attempts to capture the cheetah have thus far proven unsuccessful. Officials report that while several leopards have been trapped recently, the attacks continue unabated.
Investigating the Attacker
Authorities suspect that a single leopard may be responsible for these incidents due to the consistent nature of the attacks. To gain a clearer understanding of the animal’s movements, officials have begun installing CCTV cameras throughout the area.
Community Outreach
Police and wildlife officials are actively communicating with the public, utilizing social media to share updates and safety tips. The community remains on high alert as they navigate the ongoing threat posed by the cheetah.
