Teen attacked by leopard guarding cubs, alert sounded

Raipur: A 19-year-old youth narrowly escaped after being attacked by female leopard guarding their cub in the dense Ghatarani forests of Gariyaband, triggering a high alert in nearby villages.The incident occurred near a temple in Panduka forest range when Bhikham Kamar of Jamahi village had ventured into the forest to collect produce used for tendu leaf work. Unaware of the danger lurking in the bushes, he came face-to-face with leopards resting with their cubs.As he moved closer, the animal—highly protective of their young—suddenly pounced on him. The attack was swift and brutal, leaving the youth severely injured with deep claws and bite marks across his body. His screams echoed through the forest as he struggled to fend off the attack.Despite the assault, Bhikham managed to muster courage and escape from the spot, running out of the forest in an injured state.Forest officials said that wild animals, particularly mothers with cubs, tend to become extremely aggressive and may attack even at slight disturbance. Initial inputs suggest the leopards perceived the youth as a threat to their offspring.A beat guard rushed to the spot after receiving information and provided first aid. The injured youth was first taken to community health centre and later referred to Mahasamund district hospital as his condition was assessed to be serious.The forest department has issuing a high alert in the area. Residents have been advised to avoid entering forest zones for the time being.