Overview

• The incident took place on NH-67 beside a temple when R. Basavaraju left his guided vehicle to approach an elephant feeding on carrots.
• Bystander videos captured the elephant chasing and repeatedly trampling him after a camera flash reportedly startled the animal.
• Basavaraju was hospitalized with serious injuries and stripped of his pants during the attack.
• The Indian Forest Department imposed a ₹25,000 fine and required him to record a statement explaining his breach of reserve rules.
• Officials and witnesses warned that such reckless attempts to photograph wildlife endanger both humans and animals under protection regulations.