Farmers protest, demand capture of tiger in H.D. Kote

Mysuru: Farmers in H.D. Kote taluk staged a protest in front of the Range Forest Officer (RFO) office, demanding the immediate capture of a tiger that has been creating panic in the region.

The tiger has reportedly been spotted in multiple areas over the past three to four months, including Bochikatte, K.G. Hundi, Hebbal, Stadium Layout, and outskirts of H.D. Kote town. Villagers claim the animal has not only instilled fear but has also posed a threat to their lives and livelihoods.

Recent Incidents

Lokesh, a farmer, shared an incident where Raghu, a youth from Shantipur village, narrowly escaped a tiger attack while laying pipes to irrigate his banana crop. “The tiger pounced on him but fled after hearing Raghu’s screams. Fortunately, he was unhurt,” Lokesh recounted.

In another incident, Chandru, who was working on a farm near Hebballa Stadium Layout, was attacked by the tiger about 15 days ago.

Efforts to capture the tiger had been initiated earlier by the forest department, but the operation was suspended after the tiger managed to evade capture. The tiger has recently been sighted again in Shantipur village and nearby areas, escalating tensions.

Protest Highlights

The farmers, joined by local leaders, shouted slogans demanding urgent action from authorities. They criticised the forest department for failing to ensure their safety and called for immediate steps to trap the tiger.

Leaders and Participants

Prominent individuals, including Corporators Raju, Lokesh, and Raitha Sangha Vice-President Madevaiah, participated in the protest, alongside villagers and farmers such as Chakalli Krishna, Santhosh, Sadiq, Shafi, and others.

The protest reflects the growing frustration of the farming community, urging swift action from forest officials to restore safety in the affected areas.