Khandre visits home of trainee vet killed in hippo attack, pays tribute

Environment Minister Eshwar Khandre on Tuesday visited the residence of trainee veterinarian Dr. Sameeksha Reddy, who was killed in a hippopotamus attack at Tyavarekoppa Tiger and Lion Safari in Shivamogga last week.

The minister who visited Dr. Sameeksha’s residence in Sakalavara near Anekal offered condolences to her family members.

Mr. Khandre noted that a request was made by Dr. Sameeksha’s parents Dhruvakumar and Shailaja Reddy to build a memorial in their daughter’s name. He said that this request will be examined.

“The family has requested that the compensation amount given to her be instead used to build a memorial in their daughter’s name. There has also been a suggestion to name an elephant after her. All these matters will be examined,” he said.

Mr. Khandre said that at present, there are no written protocols from either the Centre or the State government regarding the treatment of wildlife by veterinarians in zoos.

“In this regard, I have instructed officials to immediately formulate appropriate Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) which should also include the safety of women veterinarians and all medical staff,” Mr. Khandre said.

He said that Dr. Reddy was compassionate towards wildlife and that she had recently treated a leopard, which had earned appreciation from many.

“With her death, the State has lost a young veterinarian. Despite their grief, the family has given us several suggestions. Veterinarians have also met me and shared their concerns. I have assured them that steps will be taken to resolve all these problems,” he said.

He added that a high-level inquiry has been ordered and further will be taken after receiving the investigation report.