In a significant development in Pune’s Shirur area, the Maharashtra Forest Department (MFD) has issued a critical shoot-at-sight order for a leopard responsible for the death of a 13-year-old boy. The order, issued by the Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife), marks a first for the Junnar forest division, an area frequently experiencing human-leopard conflicts. Historically, the department has focused on trapping and relocating problem animals.
The decision was prompted by intense protests in Pimparkhed (Ambevadi) village after Rohan Vilas Bombe was attacked and killed by a leopard on Sunday afternoon. This incident marks the second fatality in the village within three weeks and the fifth in the Junnar division since April, escalating fears among residents.
Angered by the persistent threat, villagers took drastic action, setting fire to a forest department patrol vehicle and vandalizing a Quick Response Team (QRT) base camp. Forest officials reported that the mob obstructed their access to the area for several hours, necessitating police intervention to restore order.
Smita Rajhans, Assistant Conservator of Forests for Junnar, confirmed the shoot order, stating, “Considering the gravity of the situation and repeated attacks, the PCCF has issued a shoot order for the elimination of the leopard. A team of expert shooters has been called in and is expected to reach the site early Monday morning to begin the operation.” Enhanced surveillance, including 25 cages, 10 trap cameras, and drones, is underway to track the animal. Awareness campaigns are also being conducted to inform and caution residents, urging them to avoid venturing out alone, especially during dusk and dawn when leopards are most active.
Senior officials highlighted that this extreme measure was adopted only after repeated, unsuccessful attempts to capture the leopard involved in multiple attacks. “This is a rare decision and has been taken only after continuous incidents, local unrest, and public safety concerns,” an official from the Pune Forest Circle commented.
However, wildlife experts have voiced concerns, emphasizing that elimination should be the absolute last resort. A senior researcher noted, “Instead of random elimination, the department should identify the specific leopard responsible and ensure that long-term measures like proper waste management, livestock protection, and habitat restoration are implemented.”
The Junnar Forest Division, known for its substantial leopard population, has recorded over 150 leopard rescues and relocations in the past five years. Factors such as increasing urbanization, extensive sugarcane cultivation, and shrinking forest cover have led to a rise in human-leopard encounters.
The forest department is collaborating with local NGOs and the Wildlife SOS team for tracking and potential tranquilization. The shoot order is time-bound and subject to review based on ongoing developments.
Authorities have maintained a strong police presence in Pimparkhed and surrounding areas as forest teams commence their search operation.