World · India Bureau
Varanasi school shut for 10 days over suspected leopard sighting
A private school in Varanasi's Cantonment area has remained closed for over a week following the detection of a suspicious animal on CCTV footage. Forest officials have set up baited traps but have yet to confirm the presence of a leopard.
LSN India ·
Saint Mary's School in Varanasi's Cantonment locality has suspended classes for the past 10 days after an unidentified animal was spotted on the school's CCTV system, raising concerns about a possible leopard presence in the residential area.
Following the sighting, the Uttar Pradesh Forest Department has intensified surveillance operations in the vicinity. Officials have deployed cage traps at two locations within the affected zone, each baited with a live goat to lure and capture the suspected feline. However, a definitive identification of the animal remains elusive.
The closure of the school has disrupted academic activities for hundreds of students in the region. Forest officials continue their investigation to determine the exact nature of the threat and whether the animal poses a genuine danger to the local population.
As of now, the Forest Department has made no official confirmation of a leopard sighting. Authorities have advised residents to exercise caution and report any suspicious animal activity to the nearest forest office or police station. The school has not announced a date for resumption of classes pending clearance from forest authorities.