Tiger kills labourer at Nahargarh Park enclosure, official suspended

A 42-year-old labourer named Sugna Devi lost her life in a tragic encounter with a tiger at Jaipur’s Nahargarh Biological Park on Wednesday morning. The incident occurred when Devi and other women labourers entered an enclosure to cut grass. As the tiger's cage inside the enclosure opened, the tiger escaped and attacked Devi, causing her death.

Devi's sister, Kamla, recounted the events, stating that the women were involved in both cutting and removing grass when the tiger's cage was accidentally opened. Devi was carrying the cut grass on her head when she noticed the tiger and immediately threw the grass, running towards her fellow labourers for safety. They used the fence to jump outside the enclosure, but Sugna attempted to escape by climbing a tree, only to be mauled by the tiger.

Following the incident, Devi's family members and relatives staged a protest, demanding compensation for their loss. Deputy Conservator of Forests Dr Ashish Vyas revealed that the cage was opened by Hansa, the in-charge of the Tiger Enclosure, who has since been suspended. Vyas cited negligence in duty and failure to follow safety protocols as the reasons for the suspension.

An assistant conservator of forests-level officer has been appointed as the investigating officer to conduct a thorough investigation into the incident.

The investigation will focus on the events leading up to the attack, security arrangements, adherence to prescribed safety protocols, CCTV footage, and other available records. Vyas assured that further action will be taken based on the investigation's findings. He also affirmed that the administration and forest department officials met with Devi's family and the villagers, offering assistance and support per the rules.

Additionally, Vyas announced a review of all security arrangements at the park, with strengthening measures being considered if needed.