A 45-year-old farmer, Shanta Hanumant Derekar, from Deriya village in Joida taluk, Karnataka, was critically injured after being attacked by three bears while grazing cattle.
The incident left Derekar with severe injuries, and he was rushed to KIMS Hospital in Hubballi, where his condition is reported to be critical.
The attack has sparked concern among villagers, who say bear encounters have been rising in the region. Locals have urged the forest department to step up measures to prevent such incidents and ensure the safety of residents living near forested areas.
Authorities are yet to respond to the villagers’ demands, even as fear grips the community following the latest attack.