Karbi Anglong: The Kheroni area of West Karbi Anglong remains gripped by fear as a massive herd of nearly 100 wild elephants continues to move through villages, causing widespread destruction and loss of life. On Monday evening, tragedy struck again when 20-year-old Khusbu Rajbhar of Bagisadubi village was trampled to death in the courtyard of her home. According to locals, a lone elephant separated from the main herd charged at her around 7 PM, killing her instantly.
The same elephant had earlier attacked farmer Mansingh Chauhan (45) and his son Ankit while they were harvesting pulses. Mansingh sustained serious injuries, including multiple rib fractures and severe damage to his left leg. He was rushed to HAMM Hospital in Hojai, where he remains in critical condition.
The devastation escalated the previous night when another section of the herd stormed 02 No. Watijor village near Forest Bazar. Three houses belonging to members of the Malakar family were completely destroyed, with elephants consuming stored rice and food grains.
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Villagers say the herd has been roaming through the Southern Forest Range for months, destroying crops, uprooting trees, and damaging homes almost every night. Despite repeated appeals, residents allege that the Forest Department has failed to take effective measures to drive the elephants back into deeper forests.
As of reporting, the herd continues to roam near Dikreng (Nawgharwa Basti) and Kheroni Charali, feeding in paddy and sugarcane fields. With one life lost, another hanging in the balance, and widespread fear gripping the region, residents are demanding urgent intervention to end the prolonged crisis.
