Hazaribagh — At least six villagers lost their lives after a group of wild elephants entered Gondwar village in the Churchu block late Thursday night, officials confirmed on Friday. The tragic incident left the entire area in shock and mourning.
Among the deceased, four members belonged to the same family. The victims were identified as Suraj Bhuiyan (55), his daughter-in-law Suman Devi (25), her two minor children, Mangara Bhuiyan (58), and Dhaneshwar Ram (approximately 55).
Villagers reported that a herd of five elephants entered the settlement between 1 a.m. and 2 a.m. when most residents were asleep. The animals reportedly destroyed several mud houses by breaking walls and doors, triggering panic as residents rushed out to protect themselves.
Suraj Bhuiyan and his family were sleeping inside their home and allegedly did not get sufficient time to flee. During the elephants’ rampage, six villagers were trampled to death.
Locals attempted to chase away the elephants by beating drums, striking utensils, and using torchlights. However, the herd continued to cause destruction before finally retreating into the forest after sustained efforts by villagers.
Officials from the local administration, police, and forest department reached the spot on Friday morning after receiving information about the incident. The bodies of the victims have been sent for post-mortem examination.
Forest authorities stated that elephant movement in the region is under close surveillance and that procedures to provide immediate relief and compensation to the affected families have already begun. Residents have been advised to stay alert and avoid venturing out alone during night hours.
Human-elephant conflict has been increasing across Jharkhand, with more than 20 deaths reported due to elephant attacks in the state over the past 45 days. The recurring movement of wild elephants into residential areas has raised serious public safety concerns.
With inputs from IANS