Chhindwara, January 17, 2026: Panic has gripped the villages of Gumtara and Kishanpur, near the Pench Tiger Reserve, as a man-eating tiger has attacked three farmers in the past 17 days. The latest victim, a 40-year-old farmer, was dragged into the forest by the tiger while irrigating his field. Parts of his body, including his head and legs, were consumed before help could arrive, witnesses said.
Series of Attacks
The first attack in this deadly spree occurred on December 31, 2025, when farmer Balram Deharia was ambushed by the tiger while operating a water motor in his field. On January 6, 2026, another farmer, Kamal Uike (43), was attacked near a pond, and his mutilated body was later found by the riverside. The tiger’s repeated attacks over 17 days have left local residents terrified.
Local Outrage
Villagers have expressed strong anger towards the forest authorities, claiming that warnings about unusual tiger activity had been raised but no effective measures were taken. Locals argue that proper surveillance and safety arrangements could have prevented these tragic deaths.
Tiger Habitat Expansion
The incidents are being linked to the growing tiger population in the Pench Tiger Reserve. The predator’s territory has been expanding beyond the core area, reaching nearby villages. Livestock in these villages also provides easy prey, prompting tigers to venture closer to human settlements. The villages affected now fall within what authorities classify as “Critical Tiger Habitat” areas, heightening the risk for residents.
Authorities have urged villagers to remain cautious and follow forest department guidelines until further measures are implemented to track and contain the tiger.
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