In a heartbreaking incident, a four-year-old boy died after consuming poisoned food allegedly left outside homes to target monkeys in Mulugu district.
The child was identified as Ashwin Nandan.
Tragedy in village area
The incident reportedly took place in Govindaraopet mandal, where the boy is said to have eaten the food and soon fell seriously ill.
Family members rushed him for treatment to Mahatma Gandhi Memorial Hospital in Warangal, but he could not be saved.
Poison allegedly meant for monkeys
According to reports, several areas in Mulugu have been dealing with a growing monkey menace, with residents complaining that monkeys frequently enter homes and steal food.
To drive them away, some people had allegedly started placing poisoned food outside houses.
Authorities are now investigating how the child gained access to the food and who was responsible for placing it.
Police begin probe
Police have registered a case and launched an investigation into the incident.
The tragedy has raised concerns over the dangers of using poison to control animal nuisance in residential areas.
Safety and awareness needed
Officials and animal welfare voices often caution against unsafe methods of dealing with wildlife conflicts, especially in areas where children may unknowingly come into contact with hazardous substances.
The death of the young child has left the local community in shock.