Chamarajanagar: A 65-year-old farmer was trampled to death by a wild elephant while working in his field at Kotekere village in Gundlupet taluk on Monday, triggering anger among residents over the recurring human-elephant conflict in the area.
The deceased, Jannur Nayaka, was working in his agricultural field when the elephant suddenly attacked him. He died on the spot, according to villagers.
The incident has once again brought the growing conflict between humans and wildlife in the taluk into focus. Residents alleged that wild elephants frequently venture out of forest areas and enter farms and villages, posing a serious threat to people and crops.
Villagers said they had repeatedly approached the forest department seeking measures such as solar fencing and barricades to prevent elephants from entering human habitation and agricultural fields. However, they alleged that the department had failed to take adequate steps despite repeated appeals.
The latest death has intensified demands for immediate intervention by the forest department. Residents urged officials to strengthen measures to prevent elephants from entering villages and farmland and find a permanent solution to the recurring conflict.
They also demanded that the department take steps to ensure the safety of farmers and others living in areas bordering forest land.