Bhubaneswar: The Forest Department has suspended Hindol forest ranger Goutam Pradhan following an elephant attack that resulted in the deaths of three villagers in Dhenkanal district today.
The suspension comes after reports from the Regional Chief Conservator of Forests (RCCF) of the Satkosia sanctuary.
The incident occurred on Thursday morning in Baghadharia village under Hindol police limits. The victims, identified as Jhulana Dehuri (55), Karunakar Dehuri (60), and Sashi Sahu, were attacked by a wild elephant while going about their daily activities.
According to eyewitnesses, Jhulana was plucking flowers near her home when the elephant suddenly appeared and attacked her. Her brother-in-law, Karunakar, rushed to her aid but was also killed by the elephant. Later, Sashi Sahu encountered the same elephant and was fatally injured.
The Dhenkanal Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) has also suspended the Forest Guard-in-Charge and Forester with immediate effect. An investigation is underway to determine the circumstances surrounding the attack and the accountability of the forest officials.
