Three Killed by Snakebites in Jharkhand’s Palamu, Several in Critical Condition

Palamu – In a series of tragic incidents, snakebites have claimed three lives and left several others in critical condition in Jharkhand’s Palamu district, officials reported on Friday.

The most serious case took place in Narsinghpur Pathra village under the Chainpur police station, where three members of the same family were bitten by a venomous snake while sleeping on Thursday night.

Brothers Arjun Kumar and Dev Kumar died from the bite, while their father, Prem Chaurasia—who is related to Daltonganj MLA Alok Chaurasia—is in critical condition. All three were first taken to Medinirai Medical College and Hospital, Palamu, and later referred to RIMS in Ranchi. However, Arjun and Dev died before reaching RIMS. Prem continues to receive treatment.

In another case in Basdih village, also within Chainpur’s jurisdiction, Bhikhari Bhuiyan and his wife Shakuntala Devi were bitten by a snake while sleeping. Shakuntala died during treatment, and Bhikhari remains in critical condition.

These incidents are part of a larger surge in snakebite cases during the monsoon in Jharkhand, which has already recorded more than 15 such deaths.

On July 4, two siblings—Stuti Kumari and Aditya Kumar, children of Hiralal Raut—died from a snakebite in Saidpur village, Godda district, before they could be taken to a hospital.

RIMS, Ranchi, currently receives 8–10 snakebite cases daily, according to doctors. Dr. Sanjay Singh, a senior physician, stressed that timely administration of antivenom can save lives, but many patients in rural areas first turn to traditional or superstitious remedies, causing fatal delays.

Experts say the increase in snakebites is due to flooding during the monsoon, which forces snakes into human habitats. Jharkhand is home to several venomous species such as cobras, kraits, and vipers, as well as non-venomous snakes like dhamin and harhara.

With inputs from IANS