New Delhi, September 8, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has directed all states and Union Territories to ensure adequate stocks of Anti-Snake Venom (ASV) in remote and snakebite-prone areas, stressing the need for timely treatment of victims.
The directions were issued by an NHRC Bench headed by Member Priyank Kanoongo while taking cognisance of two separate cases involving deaths following snakebites.
The Commission asked states and UTs to identify high-risk areas, collect empirical data on snakebite incidents and ensure sufficient healthcare and emergency medical infrastructure in such locations.
The NHRC also called for a review of infrastructure and prescribed safety standards at tribal ashram shalas and other residential hostels, particularly those situated in remote or forested areas. Such facilities should have adequate beds and cots, sufficient wardens and staff, safe sleeping arrangements, secure campuses and immediate access to emergency medical assistance for children, it said.
One of the cases before the Commission concerns the deaths of three tribal girl students following a snakebite at a tribal residential school hostel in Gadchiroli, Maharashtra. The incident raised concerns over hostel infrastructure and the availability of basic facilities.
The second case relates to the death of a snakebite victim in Chitrakoot, Uttar Pradesh, allegedly after a delay in making Anti-Snake Venom available for treatment.
The NHRC has sought Action Taken Reports from the concerned authorities within the stipulated timeframe.
The Commission’s directions come amid reports highlighting the continuing burden of snakebite incidents in different parts of the country. On August 3, a 41-year-old woman and her 13-year-old daughter were reportedly killed by snakebites, while her 18-year-old son was injured after an alleged venomous snake attack at their home in Triveni Colony, Bakhtawarpur. The family was reportedly asleep when the incident occurred.
In Gautam Budh Nagar, health department data showed 115 snakebite cases between January and July, including 57 venomous bites. July accounted for 55 cases, including 30 venomous bites, making it the district’s highest monthly tally during the period.
The source material also states that Gautam Budh Nagar recorded 143 cases up to August in 2025.
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