Khyoda Mary, wife of Head Constable Chikseng Manpang of Namsai, who was killed in a fatal tiger attack on the night of February 2, has alleged negligence and lack of timely action by the Forest Department, holding it responsible for her husband’s death.
Speaking to the media, Mary said that videos and images of tiger sightings in the Mayudia area had been circulating on social media for nearly two months prior to the incident. She alleged that despite repeated public visibility of the threat, the Forest Department failed to take preventive measures or initiate timely action to protect local residents. “Had the department acted in time, my husband would have been alive today,” she said.
Late Chikseng Manpang is survived by his wife, four children, his father, a brother, and two sisters. Mary stated that her husband was the sole earning member of the family and that his death has pushed them into a dire situation.
Rejecting the ₹10 lakh ex gratia announced by the department earlier this week, Mary said that monetary compensation alone was not sufficient. She demanded that the Forest Department and the Chief Minister’s Office take responsibility for the long-term future of her children, including their education and overall welfare.
The incident has brought renewed focus on the Forest Department’s response mechanisms in areas reporting frequent wildlife movement, highlighting gaps in early warnings, preventive measures, and on-ground intervention. It has also raised broader concerns over administrative accountability and the safety of residents and personnel living and working in forest-adjacent and vulnerable areas.
