An Indian tourist was attacked by a tiger at Tiger Kingdom in Phuket, Thailand, on May 29, 2025, while attempting to take a selfie with the animal.
The incident, caught on camera and rapidly circulated across social media platforms, has left netizens anxiously questioning the man’s condition, as no official update on his health has been released.
The episode has reignited debates about the ethics and safety of wildlife tourism, with many calling for urgent reforms and stricter regulation. Thai authorities and Tiger Kingdom management have yet to issue formal statements addressing the incident or the victim’s wellbeing.
Shocking Attack Captured on Video: Netizens React with Concern and Criticism
The viral video, originally posted by X (formerly Twitter) user @sidhshuk, shows the Indian tourist kneeling beside a chained tiger inside the popular Tiger Kingdom enclosure. In the footage, the man appears to be preparing for a selfie, with a staff member standing nearby.
Suddenly, the tiger turns and lunges at the man, knocking him over and causing chaos as onlookers scream and the camera shakes violently. The video ends abruptly, leaving viewers uncertain about the man’s fate. Social media erupted with concern, with the hashtag #TigerAttack trending as users questioned, “Is he alive?”
Many netizens criticised the tourist for his actions, pointing out that touching a tiger’s lower back or belly can trigger aggressive responses. Others condemned the broader practice of using wild animals for entertainment, highlighting the risks of sedating tigers for tourist interactions and the apparent lack of robust safety protocols at such attractions.
Wildlife Tourism in Thailand Under Renewed Scrutiny
Tiger Kingdom, the site of the attack, is one of several tourist attractions in Thailand where visitors can interact closely with tigers—posing for photos, feeding, and even petting them. While these experiences are heavily marketed to tourists, they have long been controversial.
Animal rights groups have repeatedly raised concerns about the welfare of the animals, alleging that tigers are often sedated to make them docile for human interaction. The latest incident has brought these issues back into the spotlight, with calls for Thai authorities to implement stricter regulations and ensure the safety of both animals and visitors.
In the wake of the attack, online petitions demanding the closure of such facilities have gained traction, and several prominent animal welfare organisations have renewed their appeals for ethical and responsible tourism practices. Despite the mounting pressure, neither Tiger Kingdom nor local officials have released detailed information about the tourist’s condition or outlined any immediate changes to their safety protocols.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
This harrowing incident serves as a powerful reminder of the need for empathy, responsibility, and respect in our engagement with wildlife. Wild animals, regardless of how tame they may appear in captivity, possess instincts that must be acknowledged and respected.
The commodification of such majestic creatures for entertainment not only endangers human lives but also perpetuates cruelty and exploitation. As a society, we must reflect on the ethical implications of wildlife tourism and demand reforms that prioritise the dignity, safety, and well-being of all sentient beings.
Let us use this moment to advocate for compassionate coexistence and responsible tourism. How can we, as a community, work together to promote ethical travel experiences that protect both people and animals?
