Panic in India: Leopard breaks into home, grabs woman by the head, and vanishes into the forest

A woman in her 30s has died following a leopard attack in the Balaghat district of Madhya Pradesh, India, officials confirmed on Sunday.

The incident took place early in the morning in the village of Parapur Baigatola, located within the Happa zone of Kanha National Park. According to villagers, Sugani Bai Dharve was sleeping in her hut when the predator entered the village around 1:30 AM, pounced on her, grabbed her by the head, and dragged her away.

Family members screamed for help, prompting local residents to rush to the scene with flashlights. Witnesses stated that the leopard dragged the woman for approximately 300 meters before releasing her and disappearing into the forest.

The victim was rushed to a hospital in the city of Baihar with severe head injuries but succumbed to her wounds, according to district medical officer Dr. Anant Lilare.

Ashish Pandey, assistant director of the Sijhora buffer zone, confirmed the incident and stated that a detailed report would be filed upon completion of the investigation. Police have registered the case as an accidental death.

Forest officials noted that there has been a recent surge in leopards and tigers entering human settlements in the area. The victim's family is set to receive financial assistance in accordance with government protocols.

The Forest Department has announced plans to install cages in the area and increase patrols. Residents have been urged to follow safety guidelines:

"Keep your doors closed at night, avoid entering the forest, and do not leave children or the elderly unattended."

Local representatives pointed out that the woman’s family lived in a hut without a door, accusing authorities of failing to ensure they benefited from government programs designed to support the socio-economic status of the country's most vulnerable tribal groups.