The attacks by leopards resulted in the deaths of four people, and seven others were injured. Residents living near forests in Bardiya have expressed fear over these leopard attacks. The most recent victim was a 32-year-old man named Dinesh Tharu, who resided in Barbardiya Municipality-10. Dinesh Tharu was attacked while he was walking near the forest. Before this attack, three others had also been killed in similar attacks. Their names were Gopi Tharuni, Jagat Rani Tharu, and Kabita Muktan.
Locals say the attacks have forced them to stay away from forests, disrupting farming and fodder collection. “We are too scared to go to the forest to cut grass or tend fields,” said Radhe Shyam Tharu of Barbardiya Municipality-4.
Forest authorities say managing leopards is difficult. Two leopards captured this year were released into Bardiya National Park due to a lack of proper enclosures. Without secure facilities, these animals often return to nearby settlements. Vijayraj Subedi, head of the district forest office, said budget and infrastructure constraints make it hard to contain leopards, unlike tigers, which have better management resources.
Conservationists suggest raising awareness could reduce conflicts. However, residents of Bardiya began to express their frustration immediately after Dinesh Tharu's death by surrounding the district administration office and demanding that urgent action be taken on the part of the authorities to do something about the problem of leopards, as a year-long silence and patience seemed to have done nothing.
The protesters told the authorities that they can no longer remain silent while their lives are at risk and that the residents want not only to protect their safety but also to protect their livelihoods.