Tiger Sighting Triggers Panic In Jajpur Village, Forest Officials Launch Search

Jajpur: Fear spread among residents of a village in Jajpur district on Saturday after a Royal Bengal tiger was reportedly spotted near a sugarcane field. A local resident claimed to have photographed the animal on his mobile phone, prompting police and forest officials to launch an immediate search operation.

The incident was reported from Talua village under Sauda panchayat in Badachana block during the afternoon.

According to locals, resident Srikant Dhinda noticed a large animal moving near a sugarcane field located close to his house. Suspecting it to be a tiger, he reportedly captured a photograph before the animal vanished into the dense crop.

Dhinda informed his family and other villagers about the sighting, following which the matter was brought to the attention of the forest department. The photograph was subsequently shared widely on WhatsApp and social media, leading to growing concern among residents.

Following the report, Jajpur Road SDPO Sarat Chandra Patra contacted Balichandrapur IIC Dilip Mohanty and directed officials to take necessary measures to ensure the safety of people in the area.

A team from Balichandrapur police reached Talua village, while forest personnel inspected the area and searched the sugarcane fields for evidence of the animal’s presence. Officials also examined suspected pugmarks found in and around the area.

Meanwhile, similar reports of suspected tiger footprints have surfaced from nearby Baniari village, raising further concern among locals. A joint team comprising the Range Officer, Chandikhol Forester and Balichandrapur police personnel has been carrying out searches at different locations.

As news of the possible tiger sighting spread, a large number of villagers gathered in the area in an attempt to see the animal. Officials have urged residents to avoid crowds, remain cautious and keep away from locations where the animal is suspected to be hiding.

The forest department is currently examining the photograph and other physical evidence to determine whether the animal is actually a Royal Bengal tiger. Officials are also keeping a close watch on the area for fresh pugmarks or any other signs indicating the animal’s movement.