Malakkappara: A four-year-old boy narrowly escaped a leopard attack in Veerankudy, Malakkappara, in the early hours of Thursday. The child, Rahul, son of Baby and Radhika, was attacked around 2.45 am while the family was asleep inside their hut.

According to reports, the leopard entered the hut and tried to drag the child away. However, the timely intervention and loud cries of the parents forced the animal to flee, leaving Rahul behind.

Rahul sustained minor injuries to his head. He was first taken to Tata Hospital for initial treatment and later shifted to Chalakudy Taluk Hospital in a tribal ambulance for further care.

This is the third leopard attack reported in Malakkappara in the past two months. The rising frequency of such incidents has alarmed residents, particularly those living near forest fringes. Locals are urging forest authorities to step in immediately and implement measures to prevent further attacks and ensure public safety.