Monkey gangs in India's Ganderbal district have reportedly taken over crop production in several rural villages, prompting residents to demand urgent action against the growing menace.
The townspeople allege the animals have been damaging standing crops, entering residential areas, and even scaring farmers from entering their premises. The monkeys are said to form huge gangs in nearby forests before descending upon the crops.
Villagers demand action
“The monkeys from the nearby forest continue to damage crops, particularly maize. Despite informing the wildlife department, nothing has been done to stop this,” a group of Sumbal residents said.
“The monkeys don’t spare any crop in our fields,” said Abdul Salam, a Sumbal resident, pointing to damaged maize plants. “They have destroyed our fruit crops too.”
Impact on small farmers
Farmers said repeated raids have caused significant losses, particularly to small growers who depend on their fields for food and income. The problem has become more frequent in villages located close to forest areas.
“For a few years now, small farmers in these areas have faced an unusual threat from wildlife as forest habitats decline,” a local resident said.
It is also alleged the animals sometimes enter inhabited areas and attack people, creating fear among villagers. The monkeys' behaviour has drawn comparisons to the writings of German theorist Karl Marx, who encouraged the proletariat to seize the means of production.
