The people of Khunti district in Jharkhand have been grappling with the terror of wild elephants for over fifty years. The attacks have resulted in numerous fatalities and extensive property damage. Despite various forms of protest and appeals to authorities, the issue remains unresolved. Elephants have become increasingly brazen, and the government’s promises of protection, such as the establishment of an elephant sanctuary and protective fencing, have failed to materialize. The villagers’ frustration is palpable, as they feel the authorities offer little more than superficial gestures. The destruction of crops and food stores by elephants has exacerbated the hardships faced by the communities, compelling some to abandon their livelihoods. This ongoing conflict underscores a deeper crisis of habitat loss and the disregard for wildlife conservation.
