Two tourists were bitten by monkeys at the Taj Mahal in Agra, Uttar Pradesh on the morning of September 23, 2026. This event involved an 83-year-old Brazilian named Anthony Penn and another tourist from West Bengal. The attacks occurred around 8 am, prompting immediate action from local healthcare services. Following the bites, both individuals were taken to a dispensary located near the iconic monument to receive first aid.

After initial treatment, the victims were later transferred to the nearby district hospital for further medical attention. This incident marks a continuation of a troubling trend as monkey attacks on visitors at this renowned site have become increasingly frequent, raising concerns about the safety of tourists.

Ongoing Monkey Attacks at the Taj Mahal

Monkey attacks at the Taj Mahal are not a recent phenomenon. Over the past two months, multiple incidents have been reported involving visitors, including foreign tourists, women, and children. Notably, on July 26, a South Korean tourist, Kim Mihe, was bitten on her hand by a monkey near the eastern gate. As a result of the attack, she experienced bleeding and required immediate care at a primary health centre. Due to delays in ambulance services, she was ultimately transported to the hospital in a battery-operated vehicle.

Additionally, on August 12, Mohammad Ali from Karnataka suffered an attack from a monkey near the western gate, requiring first aid before going to the hospital. Other incidents include a six-year-old child from Haryana who was bitten near the Mehman Khana on August 30 and a female tourist from Delhi who was attacked near the mosque at the Taj Mahal on September 3. Most recently, on September 16, a British tourist named Suzanne Ann Barrett experienced a similar encounter near the Royal Gate.

The incidents this week have heightened the concern regarding tourist safety at this high-profile heritage site. Reports suggest that these incidents are becoming alarmingly frequent, with several incidents occurring within a short span of time.

Concerns Over Tourist Safety and Responsibility

The series of attacks has generated significant apprehension regarding the safety protocols in place for visitors at the Taj Mahal. Allegations have surfaced about inadequate management of the local monkey population. The Agra Municipal Corporation is reportedly tasked with capturing monkeys, while the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) is responsible for ensuring tourist safety within the monument’s premises.

Despite the availability of first-aid services, the frequency of these attacks raises questions about when a permanent solution will be implemented to address this ongoing issue. The coordination between the relevant authorities in Agra is crucial in preventing further incidents that could endanger tourists.

Given the variety of victims affected, including foreign nationals, women, and children, stakeholders highlight the pressing need for enhanced measures to protect visitors at this globally recognised site. The nature of these incidents underscores the importance of establishing efficient systems that prioritise the well-being of tourists amid the challenges posed by local wildlife.

Long or Short, get news the way you like. No ads. No redirections. Download Newspin and Stay Alert, The CSR Journal Mobile app, for fast, crisp, clean updates!

App Store –  https://apps.apple.com/in/app/newspin/id6746449540 

Google Play Store – https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.inventifweb.newspin&pcampaignid=web_share