Injured Elephant Calf Sparks Investigation in Chhattisgarh Reserve

An elephant calf, suspected victim of a bomb explosion, was discovered injured at Udanti-Sitanadi Tiger Reserve in Chhattisgarh. Reserve Director Varun Jain revealed that blood traces were found over six kilometers. A probe is underway, with a reward for information leading to suspect hunters.

An elephant calf has reportedly sustained injuries in a potential bomb explosion at the Udanti-Sitanadi Tiger Reserve in Chhattisgarh, authorities disclosed on Monday.

Director of the Reserve, Varun Jain, confirmed receiving reports of significant blood traces in an area frequented by elephant herds. An anti-poaching team was deployed for investigation, revealing blood trails extending over six kilometers. The injured calf, estimated to be around five to six years old, was located via drone technology.

Jain noted that the calf exhibited a swollen jaw and leg injuries, with remnants of a potassium bomb found at the scene. The incident has prompted a search for the responsible hunter, with a Rs 10,000 reward for relevant information. Authorities are employing a thermal drone to assess the injuries and may tranquilize the animal for treatment. The practice of using potassium bombs, typically targeting wild boars, is under scrutiny to discern the intent behind this incident, with police complaints filed concerning the explosive device.

(With inputs from agencies.)