India Tribune Newsdesk
In an unusual yet practical step to deal with the growing monkey problem on campus, Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) reportedly hired a langur handler with a monthly salary of Rs. 12,000. The purpose of this appointment was to use langurs, or their presence, to scare away aggressive monkeys that had become a serious nuisance for students, teachers, and staff members. The decision attracted public attention because it combined traditional methods with modern campus management in a unique way.
Monkey attacks and disturbances have become common in many parts of India, especially in cities and educational institutions where food waste and human activity attract them. AMU, one of India’s oldest and most respected universities, was also facing similar challenges. Rhesus monkeys often entered hostels, classrooms, offices, and residential areas inside the university. They snatched food, damaged property, frightened students, and in some cases even attacked people. Such incidents created fear and inconvenience, particularly among new students and elderly staff members.
To address this growing issue, the university administration decided to employ a trained person who could manage langurs. Langurs are larger monkeys known for their dominance over rhesus monkeys. In many places, the sight or sound of a langur is enough to drive smaller monkeys away. For years, government offices, railway stations, hospitals, and airports in India have used langur handlers to control monkey populations. Since actual langurs are protected animals under wildlife laws, in some cases handlers imitate langur sounds or use their presence symbolically to scare monkeys away.
The appointment at AMU came with a monthly salary of Rs. 12,000, which was considered reasonable for the specialized work. The handler’s job involved patrolling areas where monkeys were frequently seen, responding to complaints, and ensuring that monkeys stayed away from crowded zones such as libraries, cafeterias, and hostels. This was not just a simple task, as it required patience, skill, and experience in dealing with animals.
Students and staff reportedly welcomed the move. Many said the monkey menace had become unbearable, especially during meal times when monkeys would snatch food from hands or bags. Hostel residents often complained that monkeys entered rooms through open windows and balconies. Some students were even afraid to walk alone in certain areas during early morning or evening hours. Therefore, the university’s decision was seen as a practical solution to restore safety and peace on campus.
The story also highlights a larger issue affecting urban India: increasing conflict between humans and wildlife. As cities expand and forests shrink, animals such as monkeys lose their natural habitats and move closer to human settlements in search of food. Campuses, parks, temples, and residential colonies often become easy feeding grounds because people sometimes feed monkeys intentionally or leave food waste in open areas. Over time, monkeys lose their fear of humans and become bold and aggressive.
Experts say that while langur-based deterrence may work temporarily, long-term solutions require better waste management, public awareness, and humane wildlife control strategies. Authorities need to ensure garbage bins are covered, food waste is properly disposed of, and people are discouraged from feeding monkeys. In addition, wildlife departments should develop safe relocation or population control programs where necessary.
The use of langurs or langur handlers has also sparked debates among animal rights groups and environmentalists. Some argue that relying on fear tactics is not a permanent answer and may stress both species. Others believe it is a harmless and effective method when compared with violent or cruel measures. In places where monkey attacks threaten public safety, officials often choose the quickest practical option available.
For Aligarh Muslim University, the hiring reflected its responsibility toward student welfare and campus discipline. Universities are not only centers of learning but also living spaces for thousands of people. When everyday activities are disrupted by animal intrusions, administrators must act quickly. By spending Rs. 12,000 per month, the university aimed to prevent injuries, property damage, and constant disturbance.
The news also became popular because it showed how local knowledge and traditional practices still have value. Instead of investing immediately in expensive technology or complicated systems, the university used a method that has been tested in many Indian cities. Sometimes simple solutions rooted in experience can be surprisingly effective.
In conclusion, the decision by Aligarh Muslim University to hire a langur handler at a salary of Rs. 12,000 demonstrates how institutions adapt to practical challenges in creative ways. While it may sound unusual, the step addressed a real and pressing problem faced by students and staff. At the same time, it reminds society of the need to balance urban growth with wildlife conservation. Human-animal conflicts are increasing, and sustainable solutions must protect both people and animals. Until then, the presence of a langur—or even the call of one—may continue to serve as an unlikely guardian of peace on campus.
