Unraveling the mystery: Elephant deaths in Madhya Pradesh under forensic investigation

In a troubling incident, ten elephants died over three days this week at Madhya Pradesh’s Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve. Four elephants were found dead each day—Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday. Authorities responded swiftly, with a five-member government committee, led by Additional Principal Chief Conservator of Forests L. Krishnamoorthy, stepping in to investigate.

Officials collected samples from the elephants’ viscera, liver, kidneys, and other organs, which will be sent to the ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute and a forensic lab in Sagar.

While the exact cause remains unknown, preliminary investigations suggest that the elephants may have consumed toxic Kodo millets. Officials are also exploring the possibility that pesticides sprayed on the crop could be responsible. Recent heavy rains in the area, shown in social media videos, may have washed toxins into the elephants’ feeding areas.

The team of veterinarians and forest officials is conducting further inquiries, and they await lab results for conclusive answers. These results are expected to shed light on the mysterious deaths of these protected animals.