Kharibari, Nov 20 (The Street Press India) – On Monday, the All India Kisan Sabha took action by surrounding the Tukriajhar Forest Department Office in Naxalbari. They handed over a written request, known as a memorandum, asking the forest department for fair financial support. This comes after the unfortunate incident where Swapan Mahali lost his life in a wild elephant attack in Manjay Jote, Kharibari.
Reports indicate that on October 27, the victim suffered severe injuries in an elephant attack and tragically passed away at the North Bengal Medical College and Hospital (NBMCH). There are allegations that the forest personnel did not give due importance to the matter.
Consequently, the family of the deceased is seeking compensation for this unfortunate incident. To amplify this demand, a demonstration took place where members of the All India Kisan Sabha joined forces to support the grieving family, encircling the forest department office.
Addressing this issue, Jharen Roy, the District Secretary of All India Kisan Sabha, emphasized that the decision was reached without a comprehensive investigation into the tragic death. Beyond seeking financial compensation, there is also a request for the construction of an elephant control watchtower and the installation of searchlights in the area.
The ADFO of Kurseong Forest Department, Bhupen Vishwakarma, mentioned that the authorities were notified about the death at a later stage. Upon the arrival of the Ranger and Beat Officers for investigation, the cause of death wasn’t immediately apparent.
However, he assured a thorough decision-making process after reevaluating the location and examining the autopsy results. At the same time, he dismissed the allegations against the ranger as unfounded. The Naxalbari police promptly intervened and successfully managed to bring the situation under control.
