Leopard Attack in Mandi District: One Fatality and Five Injured

In a shocking incident in Mandi district's Balh Valley, a man-eater leopard attacked residents, leading to one fatality and five injuries. The leopard's rampage spanned three villages, causing widespread panic. Local residents took matters into their own hands, ultimately killing the leopard. Authorities are investigating the circumstances surrounding this tragic event, which highlights the growing issue of human-wildlife conflict in the region. The community is receiving support from local administration as they cope with the aftermath of this terrifying encounter.

By Narendra Chaudhary Dec 24, 2025, 14:21 IST

Tragic Leopard Attacks in Balh Valley

Munish Sood
MANDI:
A leopard, known for its aggressive behavior, caused chaos in the Balh Valley of Mandi district early Saturday morning, resulting in one death and five injuries across three villages before local residents managed to kill the animal.

The first attack occurred in Chandyal village, where the leopard ambushed unsuspecting residents in the early hours. It then moved to Bhadyal, where it injured four individuals, creating widespread panic and prompting many to flee their homes. The animal ultimately reached Malwana village, where it fatally attacked a man.

The victim has been identified as 40-year-old Balveer Singh, son of Thungu Ram, originally from Bhyuli village. He had been visiting relatives in Mandi city at the time of the incident. His remains have been sent for a post-mortem examination.

The injured individuals include Sahib Singh from Bihar, Deenanath and Rekha Devi from Bhadyal, and Champa Devi and Janit from Malwana. All five were transported to Shri Lal Bahadur Shastri Medical College in Nerchowk for treatment.

In the aftermath of the attacks, fear swept through the Balh Valley as residents armed themselves with sticks and sharp objects for protection. When the leopard attempted to attack again, locals successfully shot it dead. The carcass has also been sent for a post-mortem examination.

Balh SDM Smritika Negi confirmed the tragic events, noting that one person had died, five were injured, and the leopard was killed in self-defense efforts. She mentioned that the administration is providing immediate assistance to the affected families.

Mandi Divisional Forest Officer (DCF) Vasu Dogra stated that forest department teams arrived quickly after being alerted and began necessary actions. A thorough investigation is currently underway to understand the factors that led to the leopard's aggressive behavior, according to Vasu Dogra.

This incident underscores the increasing issue of human-wildlife conflict in Himachal Pradesh, especially in regions adjacent to forest areas.