Joda, Oct 20: Kendujhar district’s Joda region is reeling under a wave of panic as a rogue monkey continues to terrorize residents across multiple localities.

Since Sunday, the animal has been on a rampage, biting and injuring more than seven people in areas including Talak Hutting, Shastri Nagar, and Bileipada.

Locals report that the monkey has been entering homes and attacking unsuspecting residents, often targeting their legs. The situation escalated on Sunday evening when five individuals were bitten in Talak Hutting. The attacks continued into Monday morning, with two more people sustaining injuries.

Also read: Devotees Flock to Puri for Payashraddha Rituals on Diwali

Fear has gripped the community, forcing residents to arm themselves with sticks and rods in an attempt to drive the monkey away. The growing unrest has sparked widespread concern, with many demanding immediate action from forest officials.

“The monkey is entering homes and biting people without provocation. We are scared to even step outside,” said one resident of Shastri Nagar. The repeated attacks have led to rising frustration among locals, who are now urging the forest department to capture the animal and release it deep into the forest.

The forest department has been alerted, and efforts are reportedly underway to trap the monkey safely. However, residents are calling for swift and decisive action before more people are harmed.

This incident highlights the increasing human-wildlife conflict in semi-urban regions. Until the monkey is captured, the people of Joda remain on edge, hoping for a quick resolution to restore peace in their neighbourhoods.