FILE PHOTO
SHOPIAN, JULY 23, 2026 — Panic gripped the Laitri Wali Behak forest area in the Keller region of south Kashmir’s Shopian district on Thursday after a leopard strayed into a residential home and attacked a six-year-old child. According to local officials, the wild animal infiltrated the residence unexpectedly and mauled the minor, causing significant injuries before fleeing.
The victim has been identified as six-year-old Aafia Jan, daughter of Farooq Ahmad Tedwa, a resident of Zrakan Shalidar in Keller. Following the harrowing incident, family members and neighbors rushed the young girl to District Hospital Shopian, where she is currently receiving specialized medical treatment for her injuries.
Meanwhile, Police authorities have officially taken cognizance of the wildlife encounter and initiated a formal investigation into the matter to ensure community safety.