Hyderabad, September 22, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
An Indian Rock Python used during a dance performance at a Ganesh immersion procession in Hyderabad has been rescued by animal welfare activists and police, officials said.
A dance group from Visakhapatnam was allegedly using the live python and a hen during performances held as part of the Ganesh Chaturthi festivities. The Greater Hyderabad Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (GHSPCA), along with police from Madhura Nagar Police Station, rescued the animals during a performance in Jawahar Nagar on Sunday night.
According to the GHSPCA, the python was found suffering from an oral infection and has been placed under veterinary care.
The organisation said its members had been tracking the group for nearly five days after receiving information that a live snake was being used in public performances. The group, which included women, had reportedly performed at different locations across Hyderabad during the ongoing festivities.
The group performed at Kondapur on September 19, but the snake handler allegedly fled before the GHSPCA team could apprehend him. The following day, the team, in coordination with police, caught the handler and recovered a python and a hen from his possession.
Based on a complaint filed by animal welfare activists, police registered a case and initiated further investigation.
The GHSPCA said the Indian Rock Python is a protected species under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
The organisation has previously carried out similar rescues in Hyderabad. Last year, its members rescued eight cobras from snake charmers who were allegedly displaying the reptiles in crates at Sri Yellamma Thali Devalayam in Suramgutta, under Adibatla Police Station limits.
The GHSPCA has appealed to the public to inform the organisation if they spot snake charmers using live snakes for public performances. Its volunteers also conduct rescue operations during festivals such as Naga Panchami.
FOLLOW NOW
