Leopard Attack in Maharashtra: Rising Human-Wildlife Conflict Sparks Concern
Maharashtra has witnessed a worrying spike in leopard attacks during November 2025, with several tragic incidents reported from Pune and Ahmednagar districts. The most alarming attacks occurred in Pimparkhed village, Shirur taluka (Pune), and the Ahilyanagar–Kopargaon belt (Ahmednagar), where multiple people, including children, lost their lives. These repeated attacks have triggered fear among villagers and intensified wildlife management efforts across the state.
Starting Location and Date of the Leopard Attacks
The first major attack of the month took place on 3 November 2025 in Pimparkhed village, Shirur taluka, Pune district. A 13-year-old boy was mauled by a leopard hiding in thick grass near agricultural fields. The incident occurred around 3:45 PM, shocking the local community. Source: Hindustan Times
A second fatal attack happened just two days later, on 5 November 2025, in the Dhome Mala area of the same village. A 5-year-old girl named Shivanya Shailesh Bombe was taken by a leopard near a sugarcane field. Source: The Indian Express
Around the same period, the Ahilyanagar region of Kopargaon taluka (Ahmednagar) experienced repeated leopard attacks. The first occurred on 5 November 2025, claiming the life of 3-year-old Nandini Chavan. A second fatal attack happened on 10 November 2025, where 63-year-old Shantabai Nikole was killed. Source: Hindustan Times
Full Details of the Incidents and Rescue Operations
Following the attacks in Shirur, the Maharashtra Forest Department launched an aggressive response. Multiple cage traps were installed, camera traps were deployed across farmlands, and rescue teams were stationed in the area with tranquilizer equipment. Within 48 hours, a suspected female leopard was captured alive. Source: Times of India
However, after more sightings and aggressive behavior were reported, a special combat team was assigned to track another leopard suspected of attacking children. On 6 November 2025, during an attempt to tranquilize the animal, the leopard charged toward officials. In self-defense, expert shooters were forced to fire, resulting in the animal’s death. Source: Hindustan Times
In Ahilyanagar, the situation grew even more intense. After the second human death, massive protests erupted, with villagers demanding immediate action. The forest department initially attempted non-lethal measures, including drones, night-vision teams, and bait traps. But on 10 November 2025, authorities received official permission for “shoot at sight if necessary.” Source: Hindustan Times
On 15 November 2025, during an operation near a poultry farm, a 5–6-year-old male leopard charged at the rescue team. Expert marksman Dr. Rajeev Shinde fired the shot, ending a week-long search operation. Source: Hindustan Times
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Why Are Leopard Attacks Increasing in Maharashtra?
Wildlife experts point to several contributing factors behind the rise in leopard encounters. Rapid urban expansion has reduced forest corridors, forcing leopards to move closer to rural communities in search of food. The increase in sugarcane cultivation has also created ideal hiding spots for leopards, allowing them to stay closer to human settlements without detection. Additionally, the availability of stray dogs and livestock makes villages appealing hunting grounds. Environmentalists emphasize the need for planned land use, stronger forest buffer zones, and community awareness programs to reduce conflict in high-risk regions.
Additional Measures and Safety Recommendations
The Maharashtra government has initiated new strategies, including AI-based wildlife monitoring, real-time alert systems, and increased night patrolling. Rescue centres across the state are being expanded to accommodate captured big cats, reducing the chances of repeated attacks. Villagers are advised to avoid late-evening fieldwork, stay in groups, and report any animal movement immediately to local forest officers. Proper lighting around agricultural lands and the clearing of dense bushes are also recommended to minimize hiding spots. With growing awareness and stronger wildlife management, authorities hope to reduce future leopard-human conflicts significantly.
Disclaimer
This article is based on publicly available news reports from verified media sources. All information, dates, and details are referenced through links provided within the content.
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