Jackal Attacks in Odisha: Over 20 Injured in Ganjam District

In Odisha's Ganjam district, jackals have attacked over 20 people across three villages, causing panic and fear among residents. Elders and women were among those injured, with most receiving treatment at a local health centre. Authorities have attributed the attacks to recent floods and the mating season of jackals.

In Odisha's Ganjam district, the community of Polasara is on high alert after over 20 people were injured in jackal attacks over the past two days. The incidents occurred in three villages: Hatiotta, Jemadeipur Shasan, and Chandramadeipur.

Elders and women were among the injured, with all receiving treatment at Polasara’s community health centre. Narayan Swain, medical officer at the CHC, confirmed that 21 patients have been treated and discharged, with their conditions stable.

One victim described being attacked by a jackal while walking to a pond early in the morning. The jackal also attacked two others before fleeing to a neighboring village after being chased by local residents.

Panic has gripped the community, with residents demanding compensation and fearing to go outside alone. Divisional Forest Officer BK Acharya of the Ghumusar South division stated that a forest team has been dispatched to investigate the incidents and assured that compensation will be provided.

Officials attribute the increase in jackal aggression to flooding caused by recent rains, which have displaced the animals, and their mating season. Anil Kumar Panda, range officer in Polasara, mentioned that the forest team is working to confirm the presence of jackals and is closely monitoring the situation.