The Forest Department and police have intensified their investigation into the disappearance of a dead elephant from the Baliguda forest division in Kandhamal district. In connection with the case, the driver of a forest ranger, Hrushikesh Panda, has been arrested for allegedly using a JCB machine to bury the elephant’s carcass in an attempt to destroy evidence.
A case has been registered against Ranger Binay Kumar Bishi, his driver, and the JCB owner on charges of suppressing information and tampering with evidence. Mutilated parts of the elephant’s carcass were earlier recovered from Kalahandi district, strengthening suspicions of deliberate disposal. The ranger has been placed under suspension, and the Forest and Environment Minister has assured strict action against all those involved as further investigation continues.
