Wild elephants destroy homes in Assam village, spark outrage over forest department inaction

Fresh incidents of human-elephant conflict have triggered panic in Tatibama Nirulpur under Assam’s Palashbari constituency after a herd of wild elephants damaged several houses during the night, leaving multiple families homeless and causing heavy property losses.

 

Residents said houses belonging to Sarbeswar Kalita, Madhab Kalita, Bharatiya Kalita and Mukut Kalita were either partially damaged or completely destroyed in the attacks. The affected families reportedly live on legally owned patta land outside any reserve forest area.

 

One of the worst-hit households was that of local BJP worker Sarbeswar Kalita, where an elephant allegedly broke into the house, destroyed property and consumed stored paddy and rice. Villagers said the loss of food grains has deepened concerns among families already struggling with repeated elephant incursions.

 

According to locals, herds of wild elephants have been entering the area almost every day over the past several weeks, damaging homes, granaries and agricultural produce. Many families are now spending sleepless nights guarding their houses and attempting to drive the animals away.

 

The repeated attacks have intensified fear among residents, who claimed that the situation has become unmanageable due to the lack of effective preventive measures. Villagers alleged that the Rani Forest Division has failed to respond adequately despite repeated complaints.

 

Residents have demanded immediate intervention from the Forest Department and the state government, including stronger protection measures, night patrolling and compensation for the affected families.