Leopard Scare in Shimla’s Sanjauli: Child Attacked, Locals Rally to Drive Big Cat Away
Fear gripped the quiet suburb of Sanjauli in Shimla on Tuesday when a leopard emerged from the nearby forest and attacked a child in Chalonthi. The sudden encounter sent shockwaves through the neighborhood, as residents rushed to rescue the child and scare off the predator using firecrackers and loud noise.
Locals say the leopard has since taken shelter in a nearby shed and remains hidden. The incident was promptly reported to the Sanjauli police station, and officers arrived to patrol the area and issue safety advisories. Families have been urged to keep children indoors and avoid venturing out alone at night, as the leopard may still pose a threat.
A resident of the area, shared his concern: “The leopard is hiding dangerously close to our homes. Our neighbors warned us to return early because it had attacked a child nearby. Thankfully, the child was saved, but the leopard fled only after people made noise.”
This isn’t the first time Sanjauli has faced such wildlife encounters. Last winter, a leopard preyed on several dogs in the same area. Despite efforts by the forest department—including setting up cages—the animal evaded capture. Similar incidents have occurred in Kanlog and Down Dale, where leopards have attacked children in past years.
With winter approaching, residents fear a repeat of these unsettling visits. The community is now calling on the forest department to act swiftly and ensure the safety of both people and pets. As Shimla continues to expand into forested areas, such encounters are becoming more frequent—reminding everyone of the delicate balance between urban life and the wild.
