Daijiworld Media Network – Jaipur

Jaipur, Nov 20: A sudden leopard sighting in Jaipur’s ultra-secure Civil Lines area on Thursday sent shockwaves through the city’s administrative circles, after the big cat reportedly entered the official residence of Rajasthan Water Resources Minister Suresh Singh Rawat.

The incident unfolded in one of Jaipur’s most protected neighbourhoods, home to several VVIPs and top bureaucrats. Former Deputy Chief Minister Sachin Pilot’s bungalow (No. 11) lies directly opposite Rawat’s residence, while the Raj Bhavan, Chief Minister’s residence, and several ministerial quarters are located within the same stretch.

According to Forest Department officials, the alarm was raised after fresh pugmarks were discovered inside the compound of the minister’s bungalow, confirming the presence of the wild animal.

A specialised rescue team rushed to the spot and immediately launched an extensive search operation. Teams are currently combing the interiors of the minister’s residence as well as neighbouring bungalows to trace the leopard, which is suspected to be sheltering in a secluded corner of the premises.

Given the sensitivity of the location, the area was swiftly cordoned off, and additional police personnel were deployed to ensure the safety of residents and prevent panic.

Forest officials said efforts are underway to locate, tranquillise, and safely capture the animal without causing harm to either the residents or the leopard. Preliminary assessments suggest the animal may be hiding in a shaded or densely vegetated part of the compound.

This incident adds to a growing list of leopard sightings in Jaipur’s urban belt. Earlier, on August 21, a similar sighting was reported near Gopalpura Turn. In recent months, leopard movements have also been noted in Durgapura, Jaisinghpura, Jagatpura, Kho-Nagorian, and Vidyadhar Nagar, raising concerns about increasing human-wildlife encounters.

Wildlife experts attribute these incidents to shrinking forest habitat and diminishing prey base, forcing leopards to venture into populated areas. However, a leopard entering a high-security zone like Civil Lines has posed a fresh challenge for authorities, who are now working round-the-clock to ensure both public safety and the animal’s protection.