Ranchi — Human-elephant conflict continues to escalate in Jharkhand, with two people killed in a fresh attack in Koderma and widespread damage reported from neighbouring Seraikela-Kharsawan.
The incident occurred on Tuesday night in Kanjhiyadih village under the Jainagar police station area, where a herd of elephants stormed a brick kiln. The animals destroyed makeshift houses and triggered panic among workers.
A labourer, Rajkumar Manjhi (32), a native of Bihar, and a 12-year-old boy, Lovkush, were trampled to death. Three others—Gauri Devi, Kari Devi, and a one-and-a-half-year-old child—sustained serious injuries and are currently undergoing treatment.
The incident has sparked anger among local residents, who accused forest authorities of failing to take effective action despite the continued presence of elephant herds in the region.
This marks the second fatal elephant attack in Koderma within days. On April 19, a youth was killed in the Satgawan block, leading to protests in which villagers blocked the Gaya–Deoghar road, demanding compensation and better protection measures.
In a separate incident, an elephant caused significant damage in Tiruldih village of Seraikela-Kharsawan district, under the Chandil forest area. The animal entered a primary school and consumed around one and a half quintals of rice meant for the midday meal scheme. It also destroyed banana plantations, vegetable crops, and cucumber fields in nearby villages.
Locals say elephant herds have been frequenting the Chandil subdivision for years, often entering villages after sunset. The recurring incidents have created a climate of fear, forcing residents to remain on guard through the night to protect their homes and livelihoods.