Boy killed by leopard in Uttar Pradesh wildlife conflict incident

A 9-year-old boy was killed in a leopard attack in Anand Nagar village under the Katarniaghat range of Katarniaghat Wildlife Division in Bahraich.

The tragic incident occurred on the night of 7 September 2026 at around 9 pm when Rajveer was attacked by a leopard while he had gone to fetch water from a handpump on the roadside. Sugarcane fields lie behind the boy's house, from where the leopard suddenly emerged and attacked him.

Rajveer was grievously injured in the violent attack and lost consciousness. Family members and local residents were rushing him to the nearest Community Health Centre (CHC), but unfortunately he succumbed on the way. The boy's body has been sent for post-mortem.

The forest department has expressed its condolences to the bereaved family. As immediate relief, financial assistance of ₹10,000 has been provided to the deceased boy's mother. Additionally, the process for disbursing the remaining compensation amount as per regulations will be completed and distributed at the earliest.

Leopard pugmarks have been found near the site of the incident. Camera traps are being installed in the area to identify the conflict animal. The region is currently affected by floods, due to which wildlife is moving towards higher ground and nearby rural areas seeking shelter.

The forest department is taking all necessary steps to capture the leopard. Cages are being set up in the area today to secure the rural locality and prevent any further tragedy. The forest department has also appealed to local residents to remain vigilant and avoid venturing out alone at night.