SOUTH
A farmer from Uttara Karnataka fought with a wild grizzly bear for close to three hours and was severely injured on Monday
58-year-old Juje Valanthi Adevappache from Garadolli Wada village in Haliyala taluk sustained severe injuries to his eyes, head and hands. The doctors had to sew more than 50 stitches on Juje's injuries to stop the bleeding.
The incident occurred when Juje was collecting mushroom from a nearby pond in the forest. Hiding behind a bush, the grizzly bear along with its cub felt threatened and attacked Juje when he approached the bush.
Though he was taken by surprise, Juje put up a three-hour long fight with the bear. Unable to win against brave Juje, the bear gave up and disappeared into the wilderness.
The badly injured Juje walked for close to five miles before he reached his village. On seeing Juje bleeding, the villagers rushed him to a local hospital. He was later moved to KIMS Hospital in Hubballi.
Forest range officer Deepak Nayak and deputy forest officer Mara Nayak visited the hospital and assured that the forest department would pay for Juje's medical expenses. They also promised to write to the state government requesting for monetary compensation.