Daspalla: (Report- Subash chandra Barik): The forests of Dasapalla and Gania in Odisha are no longer safe havens for wildlife. Instead of being protected by the forest department, these areas are increasingly controlled by poachers and illegal wildlife traders. Despite being well-funded, many forest officials fail to take action, allowing poaching and smuggling to thrive. 
Poachers Caught with Leopard Skin in Odisha’s Mahanadi Wildlife Sanctuary; Forest Mafia Threat Grows


In a recent operation, the forest department arrested three poachers and seized a leopard skin in the Gania forest range, part of the Mahanadi Wildlife Division. The incident occurred after a leopard was electrocuted by villagers in retaliation for killing a goat.  

How the Leopard Was Killed 

The conflict began in January when Trinath Pradhan, a villager from Khalisahi, took his goats to graze in the forest. A leopard attacked and killed one of his goats, angering Trinath. In revenge, he teamed up with Bimbadhar Nayak, Ramchandra Dalbehera, and two others to set up live electric wires, electrocuting the leopard. After killing the animal, they planned to sell its skin for profit.  

Forest Department’s Raid and Arrests 

Acting on a tip-off, forest officials from Nayagarh and the Mahanadi Wildlife Division raided Trinath’s house. They recovered the leopard skin, a loaded gun, and several hunting tools. Investigations revealed that Bimbadhar and Ramchandra were experienced poachers involved in illegal wildlife trade, including meat smuggling.  
Three suspects were arrested and presented in court, while two others remain missing. Kshama Sadangi, the Nayagarh Forest Range Officer, confirmed the arrests and stated that the department is intensifying efforts to combat wildlife crimes.  

Growing Threat of Poaching and Forest Mafia  

This incident highlights the increasing danger posed by poachers and organized forest mafia in Odisha. While tiger census operations are ongoing, illegal killings threaten conservation efforts. The forest department’s lack of strict enforcement and the rising boldness of poachers raise serious concerns about the future of endangered species in the region. 
Poachers Caught with Leopard Skin in Odisha’s Mahanadi Wildlife Sanctuary; Forest Mafia Threat Grows



Call for Stronger Action  

Authorities must take urgent steps to dismantle poaching networks and increase forest patrols. Additionally, local communities need awareness programs to prevent human-wildlife conflicts from turning into illegal killings. Without immediate action, Odisha’s forests and their wildlife could face irreversible damage.  
Nayagarh DFO Kshama Sarangi stated, 
"We have formed a special team with staff from Mahanadi and Nayagarh divisions. Based on intelligence, we seized the leopard skin and arrested three suspects. A loaded gun and poaching equipment were also recovered. Two individuals are still at large, and we are actively searching for them."  

The situation demands stricter laws, better enforcement, and community involvement to protect India’s precious wildlife before it’s too late.