Man-eating wolves terrorize villages in Bahraich since July

In the Terai region of Bahraich, a series of tragic wolf attacks has left the community in a state of fear and mourning since March 2024. The attacks have predominantly targeted young children, with nine lives lost and numerous injuries reported. Villagers have resorted to staying awake at night, armed with makeshift weapons, to protect their families from further attacks. This heightened vigilance has disrupted daily life, leading to a significant decline in school attendance as parents keep their children indoors for safety. The harrowing accounts from affected families reveal the brutal nature of these attacks. One mother recounted the heartbreaking loss of her son, who was taken by a wolf while they slept outside. Another incident involved an eight-year-old girl who was snatched from her bed, highlighting the vulnerability of children in these rural areas. The community's anguish is palpable, as they grapple with the loss of their loved ones and the constant threat posed by the wolves. In response to the crisis, local authorities have stepped up efforts to capture the wolves responsible for the attacks. District Forest Officer Ajit Singh reported that three wolves have been captured, while three remain at large, including one that is injured. The District Magistrate has advised villagers against sleeping outdoors with their children, emphasizing the need for caution. As the situation unfolds, additional police teams have been deployed for night patrols, aiming to restore a sense of security in the villages. The community remains on high alert, hoping for a resolution to this terrifying ordeal.