The Leopard's Prey: A Raj Biswas Investigation

Unveiling Enmities

Raj calls for Anil who was washing his motorcycle outside his house. Upon hearing Raj's call, Anil comes inside and asks "Yes Mr. Biswas, what's the matter?". Raj asks him to describe about Vickey Saha and what buisness he had with Dulal. Anil's brow furrowed with concern as he recounts the troubled history between Dulal and the notorious loan shark, Vickey Saha.

"Dulal owed Vickey Saha a substantial debt of two lakh rupees," Anil explains, his voice heavy with regret. "He was under constant pressure to repay it, but he struggled to make ends meet." Raj listens intently, his mind racing with the implications of Vickey's involvement in Dulal's troubles. Before he could know further about the matter, Anil's wife enters the room, carrying a tray of steaming tea. "I made some tea for you all," she says with a warm smile, her eyes reflecting the weariness of a woman burdened by the hardships of village life. "I hope it helps warm you up on this chilly day."

Raj nods gratefully, accepting the cup of tea with a nod of thanks. As they sip their tea, Anil's wife shares stories she's heard about Vickey Saha's reputation for ruthlessness. "I remember one of my friends used to live in our locality, her name, Roshni Tamang." she begins, her voice tinged with sadness. "They demanded repayment for a loan and resorted to violence when she couldn't pay. She had to leave because of Vickey Saha's gang. They threatened her family so much that they decided to move to another district for safety." Raj's gaze flickers with understanding as he listens to her tale. It becomes evident that Vickey Saha's influence casts a long shadow over the village, instilling fear and intimidation among its residents.

After finishing their tea, Raj and Naresh venture out into the village, speaking to local villagers and the village inspector to gather more information about Vickey Saha and his gang. The villagers recount tales of harassment and intimidation, describing how Vickey and his gang would bully anyone who owed them money, using fear and violence to assert their dominance.

Amidst their investigation, Raj and Naresh pause to admire the serene beauty of the forested landscape surrounding the village. The lush greenery and crisp mountain air create a peaceful ambiance, belying the darkness that lurks beneath the surface. "It's so beautiful." said Raj in an enthralled tone. Suddenly, Raj's attention is drawn to a distant noise near the riverbank. Villagers gather excitedly, pointing towards a group of wild elephants emerging from the depths of the forest to drink from the fresh waters of the river named "Tista". "It's a common sight around here," a villager remarks with a smile. "The elephants come down to drink from the river almost every day."

Raj watches in awe asthe majestic creatures lumber gracefully towards the river, their presence astark reminder of the delicate balance between humanity and nature in thisremote corner of the world. As the sun begins to set, casting a golden glowover the beautiful scene, Raj feels a renewed sense of determination to bringjustice to the troubled village of Jalapuranagar, no matter the challenges thatlie ahead.