A LEOPARD was found dead under highly suspicious circumstances in the Kopenwagaon-Mudhipar area of the Khairagarh forest range, triggering concern and alarm among forest officials and local residents. The carcass has raised serious questions about wildlife protection in the region, with poach ing emerging as a strong possibility. The leopard’s body was discovered on revenue land in the Kopenwagaon Khar area, around 50 metres from the forest boundary of the Khairagarh range. The Forest Department was alerted to the incident on December 14 at approximately 3 pm.

 

Acting promptly, a departmental team reached the spot and informed senior officials. Given the gravity of the case, the Forest Department has launched an intensive investigation. A dog squad has been pressed into service and searches are being con ducted in nearby areas to trace any suspicious individuals. At present, it is not yet clear whether the leopard died of natural causes or was illegally hunted, but initial observations have shocked officials. Preliminary findings indicate that the claws from all four paws of the leopard were missing, along with its jaw.

 

Bloodstains were also found at the site. These disturbing signs have strengthened the suspicion that the animal may have been killed elsewhere, with its mutilated body later dumped at the location. The Forest Department conducted a post-mortem examination of the carcass. The exact cause of death will be con firmed only after the post-mortem report is received. Until then, officials are examining all possible angles related to the incident. Forest Range Officer R K Tandon said that a detailed investigation is being carried out under the super vision of senior officers. He added that if poaching or any illegal activity is confirmed, strict legal action will be taken against those responsible.