Vitla: A young girl was seriously injured after being attacked by a stray dog while on her way to an anganwadi centre at Bolanthoor in Bantwal taluk on Thursday morning, February 20.
The injured child has been identified as Rijila Saramma, daughter of Riyaz, a resident of Narsha Bangarakodi in Bolanthoor. The anganwadi centre she attends is located close to her house, and she had reportedly been walking alone to the facility when the incident occurred.
Sudden attack near anganwadi
According to local sources, Rijila was proceeding towards the anganwadi centre as part of her usual routine when a stray dog suddenly attacked her. The incident took place in the morning hours, catching residents in the vicinity by surprise.
The dog allegedly pounced on the child without provocation, knocking her down and inflicting multiple bites before passersby could intervene. On hearing her cries, nearby residents rushed to the spot and managed to chase the animal away.
The attack left the child with severe injuries across her body. She reportedly sustained serious wounds on her face, raising concerns among family members and neighbours about the extent of the trauma.
Shifted to Mangaluru hospital
Following the incident, Rijila was immediately taken for medical attention. Due to the seriousness of the injuries, she was shifted to a hospital in Mangaluru for advanced treatment. Hospital sources indicated that she is undergoing treatment for multiple bite wounds and is under close medical supervision.
Doctors are said to be administering necessary anti-rabies treatment and other supportive care. The exact condition of the child is being closely monitored, and further updates are awaited.
Family members are said to be in shock following the incident, as the anganwadi centre is located within a short distance from their residence and is generally considered safe for children.
Concern over stray dog menace
The incident has once again brought attention to the issue of stray dogs in residential areas of Bantwal taluk. Residents of Bolanthoor and surrounding localities have expressed concern over the increasing presence of stray dogs, particularly near schools and anganwadi centres.
Locals have reportedly urged the concerned authorities to take immediate steps to address the stray dog menace and ensure the safety of children and other vulnerable residents. They have called for regular monitoring, sterilisation drives, and measures to prevent aggressive animals from roaming freely in populated areas.
Officials from the local administration are expected to look into the matter and coordinate with the relevant departments to prevent similar incidents in the future.
The attack has left the community shaken, highlighting the need for strengthened measures to safeguard children, especially in areas close to educational and childcare facilities.