NHRC seeks report on rise in deaths due to crocodile attacks
Kendrapada: National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has sought an action taken report (ATR) from principal chief conservator of forests (Odisha) and collectors of Kendrapada and Bhadrak over the increasing deaths and injuries caused by crocodile attacks in the two districts and other areas near Bhitarkanika National Park and surrounding water bodies.
Taking cognisance of the petition filed by lawyer and activist Radhakanta Tripathy on Nov 17 last year, the commission on Jan 22 sought the reports within six weeks.
The petition highlighted the case of Ajambar Nayak, a buffalo grazer from Ichapur village in Kendrapada district’s Aul block, who died in a crocodile attack, the ninth such incident last year. On Sept 16, 2024, Nayak was attempting to cross a creek with his buffaloes when he was attacked and killed by a saltwater crocodile.
Crocodiles are commonly sighted in rivers, creeks, and water bodies across Aul, Rajkanika, Pattamundai, Mahakalapada and Rajnagar blocks in Kendrapada district, as well as Chandabali and Tihidi blocks in Bhadrak district.
Taking cognisance of the petition filed by lawyer and activist Radhakanta Tripathy on Nov 17 last year, the commission on Jan 22 sought the reports within six weeks.
The petition highlighted the case of Ajambar Nayak, a buffalo grazer from Ichapur village in Kendrapada district’s Aul block, who died in a crocodile attack, the ninth such incident last year. On Sept 16, 2024, Nayak was attempting to cross a creek with his buffaloes when he was attacked and killed by a saltwater crocodile.
Crocodiles are commonly sighted in rivers, creeks, and water bodies across Aul, Rajkanika, Pattamundai, Mahakalapada and Rajnagar blocks in Kendrapada district, as well as Chandabali and Tihidi blocks in Bhadrak district.
