Tiger release leaves Rampachodavaram tensed

A climate of fear and anger has gripped tribal hamlets in the Rampachodavaram agency area after a tiger released into the Papikonda Wildlife Sanctuary reportedly began moving close to human habitations, triggering protests and warnings of retaliation from local residents.

The tiger, named ‘Explorer’, was captured earlier this month near Rajamahendravaram after straying into populated areas. Forest officials subsequently relocated and released the animal into the Papikonda sanctuary about a week ago as part of wildlife management measures. However, instead of remaining deep inside the forest, the big cat has reportedly been roaming near villages for the past five days, alarming tribal communities.

According to local reports, the tiger was recently sighted near Rampa, Marrivada, and Peddagonda villages under the Bolagonda forest range. Tensions escalated further after the animal allegedly attacked a calf on Thursday night, intensifying fears among residents already wary of venturing into forest areas.

Tribal residents have accused authorities of releasing the tiger without adequately assessing risks to nearby habitations. With the current season being crucial for the collection of cashew produce and other forest-based livelihoods, villagers say they are unable to enter forest areas due to fear of attack, threatening their primary source of income.

Anger among locals has grown sharply, with some tribal leaders issuing warnings that villagers may take matters into their own hands if immediate action is not taken. In a video message circulating locally, a representative associated with a tribal organisation alleged that officials had deliberately released the tiger near their villages and warned that residents might confront the animal using traditional weapons such as bows and arrows to protect their lives.

With tensions rising, forest department officials have rushed to the area and begun monitoring the tiger’s movement.