Ustad, also known as T-24, was a dominant male tiger in Rajasthan’s Ranthambore National Park. Known for his majestic appearance and fierce nature, Ustad ruled over his territory for years. However, in 2015, he was accused of attacking and killing several humans who had strayed into his territory. The incidents sparked a heated debate among conservationists, locals, and authorities about the tiger’s fate. Many feared Ustad had become a man-eater, leading to calls for his removal from the wild.

Despite the controversy, wildlife experts argued that Ustad’s behavior was a natural response to encroachment into his territory and that removing him would set a dangerous precedent. After much deliberation, authorities decided to relocate Ustad to the Sajjangarh Biological Park to prevent further conflicts. Though Ustad’s removal was met with protests from conservationists who believed he should remain in the wild, the move was seen as a compromise to protect both the tiger and local communities.

Ustad’s story remains a poignant reminder of the complex challenges in tiger conservation, particularly when human-wildlife conflicts arise. While he now lives in captivity, Ustad’s legacy continues to fuel discussions about coexistence and the need for better management of tiger habitats to prevent such conflicts in the future.