Two Farmers Killed in Bardiya Wildlife Attacks: Safety Concerns Emerge Ahead of Elections
In Bardiya, the deaths of two farmers in tiger and leopard attacks on the same day have raised serious questions not only locally but also about the upcoming elections.
The incidents have reignited debates over how seriously political parties take the safety of communities living near forested and border areas.
On Thursday, 49-year-old Maisara Dangi of Madhuwan Municipality–9 was attacked by a tiger while working in her own field. Meanwhile, 35-year-old Nandu Rokaya of Gulariya Municipality–4 lost his life to a leopard attack while cutting grass in a community forest. Both incidents occurred during routine work, prompting locals to say, “Going into the forest is not risky anymore—it’s survival that’s at stake.”
Local leaders and representatives argue that these incidents cannot be dismissed as mere wildlife issues. Ward Chair Harkbahadur Basnet of Madhuwan–9 stated, “Putting citizens’ lives at risk in the name of wildlife conservation cannot be state policy. This issue should not remain just in election speeches but must be addressed with concrete action plans in party manifestos.”
Experts note that the open border with India, scarcity of food in forests, settlement expansion, and lack of effective barriers have compounded the problem. Communities dependent on grass, fodder, and livestock for their livelihoods are the most affected.
Political analysts say that with elections approaching, the situation in Bardiya acts as a warning signal for parties. Those promising development and prosperity risk losing public trust if local safety is not prioritized.
While the District Police Office and Division Forest Office have pledged to implement safety measures, locals are still waiting for long-term solutions such as secure enclosures, monitoring systems, alternative livelihoods, and coordinated border management.
The deaths of two farmers in a single day have brought up a critical question in Bardiya: Will the balance between wildlife conservation and human safety be reflected in action after the elections, or remain only an election-time slogan?
About the Author
