Narmadapuram (Madhya Pradesh): A female leopard was found dead in the Kamti forest area of Satpura Tiger Reserve, located in compartment number 234, Beat Suaria Nala. Authorities immediately launched an investigation, adhering to guidelines from the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) and the Chief Wildlife Conservator of Madhya Pradesh.
The site was secured, and a thorough inquiry was conducted with the help of a trained dog squad. No evidence of poaching was found during the investigation. However, marks from other wild animals, such as teeth impressions, were observed on the leopard's body, indicating that the death was likely caused by natural factors rather than human intervention.
A postmortem examination was conducted under the supervision of expert wildlife doctors. The process confirmed that the animal’s organs were intact and unharmed.
The veterinary team included Dr. Prashant Deshmukh (Prani Sanrakshan Trust, WCT), Dr. Hamza Farooqui (Wildlife Doctor, Van Vihar National Park, Bhopal), and Dr. Sanjay Kumar Singhai (Government Veterinarian, Narmadapuram). In compliance with the Madhya Pradesh Forest Department's protocols, the deceased leopard was cremated.
The cremation ceremony was carried out in the presence of various forest department officials and wildlife experts. Key attendees included Rakhi Nanda (Field Director, Satpura Tiger Reserve), and representatives from NTCA, including Lakhanlal Patel.
The entire incident was documented, including photography and videography, for record-keeping purposes. While a forest crime case has been filed, investigations into the circumstances surrounding the leopard's death are ongoing.
