​Tragic Outcome for Tiger T-86

Death of Tiger T-86: Villagers Take Revenge in Ranthambore Tiger Reserve

Tiger T-86 has been found dead under disturbing circumstances in Rajasthan's Ranthambore National Park. A video has emerged showing injury marks on the tiger's body, raising concerns about the circumstances of its death.

Tragic Incident Leads to Violence

A tiger attacked and killed a 45-year-old local man near Ranthambore National Park (RNP) in Uliana village of Sawai Madhopur on Saturday. Angry villagers killed the tiger with stones and axes. The tiger has been identified as T-86.

Evidence of Violence

The footage shows large stones scattered around the tiger and injury marks on its face, indicating that it may have been attacked with a sharp weapon. This incident comes after the tragic incident in which the same tiger fatally attacked Bharatlal Meena, a local from a nearby village.

Read Also : A person died in a tiger attack in a village near Ranthambore National Park

Circumstances Surrounding the Attack

According to a senior forest official, the carcass of the tiger was found in the same area where the man was killed. There are indications that the deceased may have provoked the tiger, leading to the fatal encounter. The incident highlights the ongoing conflict between human encroachment and wildlife conservation in the region.

Official Confirmation Pending

Although the local forest department has not yet officially confirmed the death of the tiger, there are strong indications that it may have been killed in retaliatory action by the villagers. The location of the tiger's carcass matches the location of the man's death, which has further increased suspicion about his death. 

Community Response and Speculation

Eyewitnesses claim that forest officials have taken the tiger's carcass into their custody and the cause of death will be known after a post-mortem on Monday. There is tension in the area since the attack and villagers are demanding accountability and answers.

Human-Wildlife Conflict Escalates

Wildlife experts have warned that this tragic incident could be a sign of a disturbing trend in human-wildlife conflict. Biologist Dharmendra Khandal called it "a dark day for tiger conservation", stressing that mob retaliation against tigers is a new and dangerous phenomenon in Ranthambore. Abhishek Chaudhary reiterated these concerns, stressing the importance of securing tiger habitats and considering relocating nearby villages to prevent such conflicts.

Background on Tiger T-86

Tiger T-86 was 14 years old and belonged to a remarkable lineage, with mother being tigress Ladli (T-8) and father being T-34. The tiger had established its territory in a non-tourist area of ​​the park. Its sudden death has shocked the entire community and raised concerns about wildlife management in the area. 

Villagers Protest and Demand Compensation

The villagers protested for 22 hours after the tiger attack. They blocked roads and demanded justice for the victim, which culminated in negotiations with the help of Agriculture Minister Kirori Lal Meena. Initially demanding a compensation of Rs 50 lakh, the family agreed to Rs 15 lakh, also requesting additional assistance including land and employment opportunities for the deceased's dependents. Importantly, the villagers insisted that no action be taken against those involved in the tiger's death.

Moving Forward: Prevention is Key

This incident is a stark reminder of the need for proactive measures in wildlife conservation. Experts advocate the establishment of wildlife corridors and protected areas free of human habitation to minimise conflicts in the future. As human populations continue to encroach on natural habitats, it becomes very important to strike a balance between wildlife conservation and community safety.

Looking Ahead

While investigations are on-going and post-mortem results are awaited, this incident is an important reminder of the on-going conflict between wildlife and human habitats. Effective measures are necessary to prevent such tragic incidents and ensure the safety of both residents and wildlife in the Ranthambore region.

In conclusion, the tragic deaths of both humans and tigers underline the urgent need for effective wildlife management strategies that can protect both human lives and endangered species.