Bhopal, May 28, 2026

In a major relief for forest officials facing intense scrutiny after the tiger death in the Panpatha buffer zone of Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve, a second postmortem report on Thursday ruled out tranquiliser overdose as the cause of death. The fresh findings shifted the focus of the investigation after earlier reports had triggered widespread criticism over the rescue operation. In a press statement, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife) Dr. Sameeta Rajora said the report pointed towards congestive and haemorrhagic changes in the tiger’s body, indicating other possible medical complications behind the death.

The male tiger was found dead inside a house in Kherwa Tola village on May 24 after a tense rescue operation that followed attacks on villagers. After the incident, forest officials faced sharp criticism and allegations of overdose from the tranquiliser dart used during the operation. However, a detailed second postmortem conducted on May 25 by a panel of three wildlife veterinarians, along with two invited experts, has suggested a different picture. Senior officials, including representatives from the NTCA, the Field Director of Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve and wildlife authorities from Jabalpur, remained present during the examination. The entire process was closely monitored with photography and videography.

According to the report, the tiger was already in poor physical condition. Its muscles had turned pale and dry. The digestive system was found empty, while the skin appeared rough and lifeless. The report also mentioned that the dart mark was located on the right shoulder, but no bleeding was found around the spot. Officials said this indicates the dart may have been administered after the tiger had already died.

The postmortem team observed congestive and haemorrhagic changes in several vital organs, pointing towards weak blood circulation and serious internal distress. Based on the findings, the veterinary experts have indicated that the tiger may have died due to cardio-respiratory failure rather than tranquiliser overdose. At the same time, forest officials have sent tissue and organ samples to authorised laboratories for further investigation. The tests will examine the possibility of disease, internal infection, stress-related complications or toxic substances. Officials said the final conclusions would emerge only after all laboratory reports are received.