Naxalbari, 13th December: Tea workers from Jabra Tea Garden staged a protest at the Kalabari Range office of Panighata Forest Department following recent attacks by wild animals. The incident has created fear among workers, halting tea leaf plucking in the area.
According to sources, the Jabra Division, located near the forest, has been experiencing frequent wildlife threats in recent days. Workers have been injured by wild boars, and there is growing fear of tiger encounters. Reports also indicate that elephants, tigers, and wild boars have attacked workers, and livestock such as cows and goats have been taken away by wild animals.
The protestors demanded immediate action to ensure their safety. Maniram Gram Panchayat Upa-Pradhan emphasised the urgent need for cages and protective measures, warning that further attacks could trigger larger protests.
Panighata Forest Department Ranger Pramod Kumar Das assured that higher authorities have been informed and steps will be taken promptly.