Two forest staff suspended over removal of leopard remains near Anthiyur
Two forest staff members in Anthiyur have been suspended for allegedly destroying evidence related to a leopard carcass. The incident was discovered after a new Forest Range Officer conducted an inquiry into the animal's mysterious death.
Why it matters
This incident highlights potential corruption and negligence within wildlife protection agencies, raising concerns about the illegal trade of animal parts.
Two forest staff members have been suspended for allegedly removing and burning the remains of a leopard without informing their senior officials at Kinathadi Solaga Beat near Anthiyur here on Saturday (August 8, 2026).
The leopard was found dead under mysterious circumstances about three months ago in the Madhaiyan Kovil area under the Athani section of the Anthiyur forest range. Its carcass had decomposed considerably. Forest watcher Maithili and forest guard Praveen, who were on patrol in the area, allegedly removed parts of the carcass, including the claws and teeth, and burnt them.
The incident came to light after newly appointed Forest Range Officer Nandhini received confidential information a few days ago. She visited the spot and conducted an inquiry, which revealed that the leopard had died and that its body parts had subsequently been removed and burnt.
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