Bandipur: A man was attacked by a wild elephant in Karnataka’s Bandipur forest area after reportedly attempting to take a selfie near the pachyderm. The man is reported to be in serious condition. 

According to media reports, the incident took place on the Ooty–Mysore National Highway that runs through the forest, where stopping vehicles is strictly prohibited. The video shows several people and vehicles present at the spot.

Reports indicate that the man, believed to be a Malayali, had stepped out of his vehicle and approached the elephant to capture a selfie.

Video footage of the incident shows the elephant suddenly charging at the man. As the animal chased him along the road, the man ran towards a grassy field beside it. He then attempted to run back to the road but stumbled and fell. The elephant then caught up with him and trampled him.

Bandipur, a key wildlife corridor and popular tourist destination, has witnessed elephant attacks in the past, some of which have been fatal. Tiger attacks have also been reported in the area. Authorities note that ignoring warnings against stopping or stepping out of vehicles often leads to such accidents.