A recent tragedy unfolded in H.D. Kote, Karnataka, where a farmer suffered permanent vision loss following a ferocious tiger attack. The incident occurred during a wildlife combing operation, and the extensive facial injuries and nerve damage unfortunately resulted in irreversible blindness for the victim.
The devastating extent of his injuries became clear when Chief Minister Siddaramaiah personally visited Made Gowda, the injured farmer, at a private hospital in Mysuru. During his visit on Friday, the Chief Minister held discussions with Forest Department officials, hospital administration, and Made Gowda’s distraught family.
Upon learning that Made Gowda would never regain his eyesight, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah promptly issued strong directives. He ordered the Forest Department to cover all medical expenses for the farmer’s treatment and to provide substantial compensation. Emphasizing the gravity of the situation, he stated, “The compensation should not be viewed merely as a relief package, but rather calculated based on the severe loss of life quality and livelihood suffered by the victim.”
The harrowing incident unfolded in Badaganpura village, situated precariously close to the surrounding forests. Made Gowda was working peacefully in his field when the tiger unexpectedly sprang out, savagely attacking and mauling him.
Earlier, a considerable crowd had gathered, drawn by the ongoing combing operation. Forest officials, aided by the trained elephant Bheema and other personnel, were working to locate and corner the tiger responsible for recent cattle kills.
Amidst the commotion and intense activity, the tiger suddenly burst forth from the dense standing crops, charging directly towards the onlookers. While some managed to scramble up a nearby tree for safety, the tiger attacked Made Gowda, striking his face with brutal force and leaving him with severe, deep wounds. This entire operation had been initiated in response to numerous complaints from local villagers concerning recent cattle depredations by the elusive big cat.
Minister H.C. Mahadevappa, who oversees the Mysuru district, was also present at the hospital, alongside other officials, to show support and oversee the situation.