A tragic incident occurred recently in the Warangal district of central India, where 63-year-old Mallamma lost her life after being attacked by a troop of monkeys. While preparing to take a bath at home, Mallamma was suddenly assaulted by the monkeys. Startled by the attack, she accidentally spilled hot water on herself, suffering severe burns over a large part of her body. Despite urgent medical treatment, she succumbed to her injuries, sparking widespread concern in the community.
According to reports, the monkeys caused Mallamma extreme fright, leading to the accidental scalding. Her family rushed her to a private hospital in Thorrur, but the burns were too severe to save her. This incident has ignited public debate about the increasing monkey menace in the region.
Similarly, in the nearby Karimnagar district, in the village of Mankamma Thota, another elderly woman narrowly escaped injury when a group of monkeys deliberately pulled at her sari, causing her to fall. Neighbors intervened just in time to prevent serious harm.
Children and teenagers have also been victims of monkey attacks. A young girl was severely bitten, and a teenage boy, in an effort to escape pursuing monkeys at school, jumped from the first floor, resulting in fractured legs and spinal injuries.
Farmers in the region are facing significant crop damage as monkeys raid and destroy paddy fields, especially those left drying along roadsides. The destruction has left farmers devastated, with some lamenting losing months of hard work overnight. Despite frequent complaints from villagers, the lack of clear government policies and preventive measures has left communities to fend for themselves.
Experts warn that monkey attacks are on the rise and urge authorities to intervene promptly to prevent further tragedies. Calls have been made for sustainable solutions such as scientific wildlife management, relocation efforts, and strengthening forest ecosystems to reduce human-monkey conflicts.
