Illegal stone blasting kills pregnant leopard near Bengaluru

A pregnant leopard and her unborn cubs were killed in an alleged illegal quarry blast near Kengeri, triggering outrage and a formal complaint to the forest minister over unchecked crusher operations.

A pregnant leopard was killed in a suspected illegal stone blasting incident near Kengeri on the outskirts of Bengaluru, sparking serious concerns over unchecked quarrying and crusher mafia activities in the area. The incident occurred under the Chikkanahalli Gram Panchayat limits, and the leopard’s death was reported on December 26.

According to preliminary details, unauthorised explosives were used to blast rocks in the area. The leopard was reportedly at a short distance from the blast site when stones thrown up by the explosion struck it with force, killing it on the spot. Officials believe the animal was pregnant, and three unborn cubs also died along with the mother.

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The blast was allegedly carried out using illegal explosives without any safety measures. Locals said such blasting has been continuing despite repeated complaints. The impact of mining activity has also caused cracks in nearby houses, raising alarm among residents.

The area has seen heavy movement of large trucks linked to quarrying operations, leading to damaged roads. Residents have also complained of severe air pollution due to dust, which they say is affecting livestock and public health in surrounding villages.

Former minister and MLA S T Somashekar has written to Forest Minister Eshwar Khandre, demanding strict action against those responsible. He has accused forest officials of inaction despite several complaints made earlier to the Department of Mines and Geology. In his letter, Somashekar stated that no effective action was taken even after repeated representations.

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He has urged the government to ban stone crushers operating across multiple survey numbers in villages under the Chikkanahalli Gram Panchayat jurisdiction. The letter also calls for immediate enforcement measures to prevent further illegal blasting and mining activities.