Snakebite Deaths in Kerala Spark Political Row, BJP Alleges Govt Negligence

Allegations of government negligence have surfaced in Kerala following a spate of snakebite deaths, with BJP state president Rajeev Chandrasekhar accusing authorities of failing to ensure timely treatment and adequate anti-venom availability.

At least four deaths, including two children , have been reported in the past week. Among the victims was eight-year-old Dikshal , whose death has drawn widespread attention. Chandrasekhar, in a social media post, claimed that these fatalities could have been prevented with proper precautionary measures and medical preparedness.

He alleged that despite being aware of insufficient anti-venom stocks, the government failed to equip local hospitals with the necessary facilities, particularly affecting poor patients. Questioning the circumstances of the deaths, he asked why people were succumbing to snakebites even while sleeping inside their homes. “This is not an accident; it is a killing caused by the failure of authorities,” he said, attributing the deaths to delays in treatment and official apathy.

Experts have pointed out that rising temperatures are likely driving snakes into human habitats in search of cooler environments, shade, and prey such as rodents, increasing the risk of human-snake encounters.

Concerns have also been raised over delayed diagnosis and administration of anti-venom in at least two recent cases, which allegedly contributed to the fatalities.

In response, the state Health Department has convened a review meeting to assess the increasing number of snakebite incidents and has directed hospitals to ensure prompt diagnosis and availability of anti-venom . State Health Minister Veena George has urged the public to make use of the 108 ambulance service , which maintains an updated list of hospitals equipped with anti-venom treatment facilities.

Authorities have also emphasized the need for increased public awareness and quicker medical intervention to prevent further loss of life.