West Bengal

IIE DIGITAL DESK ; Shalboni, May 19: The death of a full-grown male elephant in West Bengal’s Shalboni area triggered widespread concern and outrage on Tuesday after locals alleged that the tusker was electrocuted by live wires placed around a mango orchard to protect the fruits from animals.

The carcass of the adult tusker was discovered on Tuesday morning inside the premises of a private guest house located in the Shalboni area under Shalboni Gram Panchayat in Jhargram block. The elephant was reportedly found lying near a mango grove, leading to panic and curiosity among residents of nearby villages.

The elephant had entered the orchard during the night or early morning hours in search of food, particularly mangoes, when it allegedly came into contact with electrically charged wires installed around the trees. Villagers claimed that live electric fencing had been arranged to prevent animals from damaging the mango crop, and the elephant was electrocuted after touching the exposed wires.

The incident quickly drew a large crowd to the area. As news of the elephant’s death spread, many local residents gathered around the carcass. Several people were seen taking selfies beside the dead animal, while others touched the elephant out of curiosity. Disturbingly, some individuals reportedly plucked hair from the elephant’s tail due to superstitious beliefs that such hair could be used as charms or amulets for good luck and protection.

The scene raised concerns among wildlife activists and conservationists, who have repeatedly warned against the illegal use of electric fencing in forest-adjacent areas. Such incidents have become a recurring issue in several parts of West Bengal and neighbouring states, where elephants often stray into human settlements and agricultural land in search of food.

Officials from the Forest Department reached the spot soon after receiving information about the incident. The area was cordoned off and an investigation has been initiated to determine the exact cause of death and whether illegal electrification was used around the orchard. Forest officials are also examining if negligence or violation of wildlife protection laws contributed to the elephant’s death.

The death of the tusker has once again highlighted the growing conflict between humans and wild elephants in forest fringe areas of Jhargram and adjoining districts. Habitat loss, shrinking forest resources and increasing human encroachment are forcing elephants to venture into villages and farmlands more frequently, often leading to tragic encounters.

Authorities are expected to conduct a post-mortem examination of the elephant to confirm the cause of death. Strict action may follow if evidence of illegal electric fencing or negligence is found during the investigation.