Bahraich villagers hold havan at Shiva temple to ward off wolves

LUCKNOW: Panic struck by continuing wolf attacks , villagers of Kishanganj in the Mahsi subdivision of Bahraich district have now pinned their hopes on divine intervention . They have started a special ritual at the Shiva temple near Raji Chauraha. A relay havan has started at the temple where chanting of hymns and mantras is underway as villagers gather in large numbers to seek protection from Lord Shiva.

Since July 17, over 50 villages in Mahsi tehsil have been living in fear of wolf attacks. Despite efforts by the authorities like deploying 25 forest department teams, 32 revenue teams, 200 PAC personnel and police from local and reserve units, the situation remains grim. Special teams from Lucknow, led by chief forest conservator Renu Singh, have also joined the efforts. However, the wolf attacks and fatalities continue to rise, leaving the villagers disheartened with the administration's response and are turning to prayer for safety.

On Thursday evening, a special prayer ceremony was held at the Shiva temple, located in the residence of former village head Ganga Ram Verma at Raji Chauraha. Villagers including Raja Ram Verma, Hemraj Verma, Ankit Shukla, Omji Mishra and others expressed their growing frustration. "Despite the administration's best efforts, the wolves continue to attack, claiming the lives of innocent children and elderly residents," said one villager. The collective prayer was an appeal to Lord Shiva for protection from the relentless predator.