Rabid Jackal Attacks: Forest Dept Deploys QRTs in Pakur After Infant Death

Dumka: Following a series of jackal attacks in villages under the Muffassil police station area of Pakur district, the forest department on Wednesday deployed quick response teams (QRTs) to ensure 24/7 surveillance and capture the animal responsible for the attacks.A three-month-old infant was mauled to death and anotherthree-year-old was injured at Lakhirampur village by the animal on May 9. In another incident, a five-year-old boy was injured in an attack by the animal at Rahaspur village under the same police station limits on May 12.Divisional forest officer (DFO) Saurabh Chandra said, “Preliminary findings suggest the attacks are likely the work of a single rabies-infected jackal, not a pack. The team has conducted field visits in the affected villages and found that jackal packs generally stay away from human settlements. The team is assessing measures to prevent further attacks. The department is coordinating with local authorities to ensure the safety of villagers.”“Residents are keeping sticks with them while venturing out of their homes, especially at night,” Ayatullah Ajfarukh Sheikh of Rahaspur village said.The forest department has initiated compensation for affected families. An immediate relief of Rs 50,000 has been given to the infant’s family, while injured have received Rs 5,000 each. Families of those killed in animal attacks are entitled to Rs 4 lakh. Seriously injured victims can get Rs 1 lakh, while those with minor injuries are eligible for Rs 15,000. “Verification is under way, after which the remaining compensation will be processed,” said the DFO.