The death of an elephant due to electrocution in Chanutmal village under Odisha’s Muribahal Range has sparked controversy after a farmer was named as an accused in the case, raising serious questions about the Forest Department’s investigation.

Reports indicate that the elephant died on April 30, allegedly due to a lack of coordination between the Forest Department and the Electricity Department. Instead of holding departmental lapses accountable, the Forest Department registered a case against farmer Sanjeeb Kumar Putel, and a Non-Bailable Warrant (NBW) has been issued against him. Warrants have also been issued against linesman Ajit Taria and Junior Electrical Engineer Mohammed Junaid.

The farmer, however, denies any role in the incident. He stated that there has been no electricity connection or motor supply to his farmland since March and that he had previously lodged complaints regarding the issue. Reports also suggest that the Electricity Department had disconnected the supply, causing losses to his farming activities. Despite this, the farmer was accused after the elephant was found dead in his cashew garden.

The farmer is currently absconding due to fear following the NBW. Meanwhile, criticism has intensified after the Forest Department reportedly gave a clean chit to the concerned Range Officer.

Environmentalists and local observers have raised concerns about negligence and lack of coordination between the Forest and Electricity departments, emphasizing the need for proper accountability to prevent such incidents in the future.