‘Elephant carcass cut into pieces, buried!’ Odisha DFO confirms reports

A shocking incident has come to light regarding the death of an elephant in the Belghar forest range under the Baliguda Forest Division of Kandhamal district. 

Baliguda Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) has confirmed that reports claiming the carcass of the elephant was cut into pieces and buried at a different location are true.

According to sources, the elephant died in the Jhiripani area on January 5. In an alleged attempt to cover up the incident, some Forest Department personnel cut the carcass of the elephant into pieces and buried them elsewhere. 

It has been reported that forest staff, including a forester, ranger, and home guards who were responsible for wildlife protection, were involved in the act.

Baliguda DFO Ghanshyam Mohanta admitted before OTV that the incident did take place. After the elephant’s death, officials of the Belghar forest range allegedly tried to suppress the matter, but the issue has now landed them in serious trouble.

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Initially, officials of the Belghar forest range denied the allegations and claimed the reports were false. However, after visiting the spot and conducting a preliminary investigation, the Baliguda DFO confirmed that the incident was indeed true.

The DFO stated that a detailed investigation is currently underway to ascertain all facts related to the incident and to fix responsibility.

"The death of an elephant in the Belghar forest range is a fact, though the matter has come to light only now. I thank the media for reporting the incident. An inquiry into the matter has already been initiated. Detailed information will be made public after the inquiry report is received," said Baliguda DFO Ghanshyam Mohanta.