Leopard attack sparks fear among workers at Assam tea estate

Fear has gripped Lakribam Tea Estate in Assam’s Tingkhong following a leopard attack that left a man seriously injured, with locals alleging that the Forest Department has failed to take adequate action despite repeated incidents.
 

The victim, identified as Nakul Goraik, was attacked while he was walking along a road in the tea garden. According to locals, the leopard suddenly pounced on him, leaving him seriously injured. He was subsequently admitted to the Tingkhong Tea Estate hospital for treatment.
 

In another incident reported on the same day, two young men riding a motorcycle were allegedly chased by a leopard in the area.
 

Residents said a large and a small leopard have been moving around freely in the vicinity, which falls under the Khowang Range Forest Office. The animals have reportedly been preying on cattle and goats in the area for the past two to three months.
 

The continued presence of the leopards has created fear among tea garden workers, with some reportedly staying away from work due to concerns for their safety.
 

Locals have also accused the Forest Department of failing to respond promptly despite being informed about the incidents. They alleged that no forest officials had reached the area until late at night after the latest attack.
 

The alleged delay has triggered anger among residents, who are now demanding immediate action to prevent further attacks.