Anantnag, Oct 13: In a tragic incident, a six-year-old nomadic boy was mauled to death by a leopard in the Wopzan area of South Kashmir’s Anantnag district on Sunday evening.
According to local sources, the child was attacked by the wild animal while playing near his temporary shelter on the outskirts of Wopzan village.
The leopard reportedly dragged the boy into nearby bushes before locals rushed to the spot after hearing cries for help.
Despite frantic efforts by villagers and wildlife officials, the boy was found dead a short distance from the site of the attack.
The shocking incident has triggered panic among the residents, especially among the nomadic families who camp in the area during the grazing season.
Wildlife Department officials have launched a search operation to track down the animal. They have also urged residents to remain vigilant and avoid letting children move alone in areas adjacent to forests.
The tragic death of the young boy has once again raised concerns about the increasing man-animal conflict in South Kashmir, particularly in the districts of Anantnag and Kulgam, where several such incidents have been reported in recent months.
Authorities have assured that necessary compensation will be provided to the bereaved family and measures will be taken to prevent further attacks in the area.