Local Residents Fear Further Fatalities as Authorities Delay Tiger Capture
Fear and uncertainty grip the communities of Gudalur, Tamil Nadu, after a series of tiger attacks that have claimed multiple lives. The most recent incident, which killed two people in O‑Valley’s Loristan area, prompted political parties and trade groups to call a two‑day shutdown on 27 and 28 August.
Leaders from BJP, Congress, VCK, CPI, CPI(M), NTK, DMK and SDPI convened at the DMK MLA’s office, unanimously endorsing the strike and urging grocery stores, auto‑rickshaws, taxis and plantation workers to cease operations.
Local merchants announced the closure of shops, while transport operators vowed to keep vehicles off the streets. The popular tourist spot of Masinagudi, known for its resorts and cottages, is also expected to suspend services.
The Gudalur Vyaparik Sangam added that estate workers will participate and keep children out of schools for both days, aiming to demonstrate community solidarity and force authorities to act.
Town secretary S. Ilanchezhian of the DMK blamed the forest department for failing to set traps after the deadly 9 August encounter, suggesting that prompt action could have saved the life of Ravi Kumar, who died in a later attack on 21 August. He demanded the immediate removal of the tiger, stressing that the assaults have occurred near residential zones.
The 21 August protest turned violent when bottles were thrown, injuring two police officers and resulting in seven arrests. Political representatives claim that police detained elected officials instead of apprehending the actual perpetrators.
Revenue officials have not yet engaged with the protestors. Gudalur Revenue Divisional Officer S.K. Gunasekaran said discussions will begin only after Nilgiris Collector Laxmi Bhavy Taneru grants approval.
In a rapid response, the forest department increased its containment facilities from six cages to eight and boosted camera traps to 60. District Forest Officer P. Devaraj reported fresh tiger tracks and droppings, confirming the animal’s presence, though it has yet to be sighted directly.