GHSPCA and PFA urge Hyderabad public to end snake cruelty ahead of Naga Panchami

Ahead of the Naga Panchami festival on August 17, 2026, the Greater Hyderabad Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (GHSPCA) and PFA Abhaya have appealed to the public in Hyderabad to stop cruel practices against snakes carried out in the name of religious beliefs.

In a press release, GHSPCA Coordinator Soudharm Bhandari warned that in the weeks leading up to Naga Panchami, snakes are illegally captured and subjected to severe cruelty by snake charmers. He stated that these reptiles are subjected to fangs removal, damage to their venom glands, and the stitching or damaging of their mouths.

Bhandari added that captured snakes are kept confined in dark and unhygienic conditions and are systematically deprived of food prior to the festival.

D Joshi of PFA Abhaya noted that captured snakes are subsequently displayed in public and offered milk by citizens. Joshi emphasized that milk is not a natural part of a snake's diet and leads to serious health issues. Many snakes suffer or die as a result of injuries, dehydration, starvation, infection, and improper handling.

To address the issue, the GHSPCA announced plans to carry out rescue and awareness operations across different parts of Hyderabad.

The animal welfare organizations urged citizens who spot snake charmers displaying or handling snakes to report them immediately to emergency helplines. Reports can be logged with the Telangana Forest Department (18004255364), GHSPCA (8886743881, 9394578568), or PFA Abhaya (9441131481).