A couple in Bengaluru saw their wedding plans go awry as news of leopard sightings in Kengeri’s Kodipalya created panic in the region causing most of the invitees to stay away.
Locals found a half-eaten carcass of a spotted deer suspected to be killed by a leopard at Kodipalya near Kengeri in Bengaluru south, which is close to the Turahalli forest area. It is suspected that four leopards were spotted in the area. The forest department has not confirmed the number of big cats.
The couple, Deepa and Guruprasad, wed Friday morning in the presence of their immediate kin and close relatives.
The families of the couple were disappointed as their relatives couldn’t attend the wedding and a lot of food went to waste.
They said that nearly 2,000 people were invited to the wedding but only a little over 500 turned up.
According to the bride’s family, food was prepared for 3,500 people, which has now gone to waste. The family procured a loan of Rs 3.5 lakh to book the marriage hall since they have a large extended family.
One of the groom’s friends said that the Karnataka Forest Department (KFD) should be transparent in their communication.
“They (KFD) said that they have installed cameras. We don’t even know where the cameras are installed. Since our villages are bordered by the forest, the officials should take extra precautions,” he said.
Another relative said that people who couldn’t afford to travel in cars refrained due to fear of the leopard.
“Many people were scared after finding the carcass of the spotted deer. Some locals say that the leopard’s cubs are also in the area. The Forest Department should focus more on the safety of villagers surrounding the forest area. I came today in my car. But many others who only have motorcycles couldn’t come because they are scared,” he said.
A team of officials from the Forest Department led by Bengaluru Urban Deputy Conservator of Forest (DCF) SS Ravishankar combed the area and set up a cage to trap the big cat.
