Karnataka vet killed by hippo: Zoo authority to name elephant calf at Bannerghatta in her honour

SHIVAMOGGA: Following the death of veterinarian Dr Samiksha Reddy, who was killed by a hippopotamus at Shivamogga Zoo, the Zoo Authority of Karnataka (ZAK) has decided to name an elephant calf at Bannerghatta Biological Park in her honour.ZAK chairman K Rangaswamy told reporters that the veterinarian's services would be remembered. During a visit to Shivamogga Zoo, he conveyed condolences to the family, describing the loss of their only daughter as irreparable. He said Dr Reddy, who had only recently joined the department, was driven by a deep love for animals, which he said likely influenced her decision to enter the enclosure.On the violation of standard operating procedures, Rangaswamy said there was a severe shortage of veterinary staff after the previous officer resigned four months ago. He said a govt-appointed committee has been asked to submit a report within seven days and that police investigations are also under way to determine whether there was negligence by Shivamogga zoo officials.Speaking to TOI, Bannerghatta Biological Park executive director AV Surya Sen said the proposal to name the calf has been discussed and that ZAK would finalise the details soon.Meanwhile, chief conservator of forests (Shivamogga Circle) Hanumanthappa began an investigation at Shivamogga Zoo on Monday following orders from Forest Minister Eshwar B Khandre.