Somwarpete: District in-charge minister M R Seetharam has directed the forest department to release a compensation of Rs 5 lakh to the kin of deceased security guard who was mauled by a man-eater leopard here on November 4 in a coffee estate in Somwarpete.
It may be recalled that 67-year-old Timmappa, a security guard was killed on Monday morning. His half-eaten body was found in front of the shed.
Following the attack, labourers and locals held protest and blocked roads. Minister Seetharam immediately responded to them and directed the forest department to distribute Rs 5 lakh to the kin of the deceased. Forest officials who visited the spot have handed over a cheque of Rs 2 lakh to the family.
DFO Surya Sen, ACF Chinnappa, RFO Laxmikanth and staff visited the spot and inquired about the incident. Meanwhile, the DFO has said that no evidence was found to confirm that it was a leopard attack. “We are suspecting it as of a dog attack and we will take action post-enquiry,” DFO added.
Enraged with DFO’s statements, labourers and locals blocked the road demanding compensation to the victim’s family. Protest was called off after DFO assured of Rs 5 lakh compensation following directions from the minister.
AITUC members, Jaya Karnataka members, Karave and Congress joined the protesters.
Circle inspector Nanjunde Gowda, Sub-inspector Shivanna are further investigating the case.
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