GHSPCA urges Hyderabad public to stop cruelty against snakes during Naga Panchami
HYDERABAD: The Greater Hyderabad Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (GHSPCA) has appealed to citizens to stop practices that cause cruelty to snakes during Naga Panchami, which will be observed on August 17, 2026.
GHSPCA said snakes, particularly cobras, are sometimes illegally captured before the festival and subjected to cruelty. The organisation said reported practices include removal of fangs, damage to venom glands, stitching or damaging mouths, confinement in dark and unhygienic conditions and deprivation of food.
Snakes are also displayed publicly and offered milk, kumkum and other substances. GHSPCA said milk is not part of a snake’s natural diet and forcing snakes to consume it can cause health problems.
GHSPCA plans rescue and awareness operations this year
GHSPCA said it has been rescuing, treating and releasing snakes into their natural habitat since 2005, particularly those injured or subjected to cruelty during Naga Panchami.
The organisation said it has rescued 5,366 snakes during Naga Panchami over the years. It will conduct rescue and awareness operations this year with volunteers and in coordination with the Forest Department and other animal welfare organisations.
The group said snake rescues during the festival have fallen from more than 200 in earlier years to 14 in 2025. It attributed the decline to sustained awareness campaigns and public cooperation.
Residents urged to report snake charmers instead of confronting them
GHSPCA volunteers and People for Animals (PFA) volunteers conduct rescue and awareness activities in areas including Shalibanda, Hussaini Alam, Gowlipura, Begum Bazar, Doodhbowli, Lal Darwaza, Ramkoti, Moghalpura and Kamatipura. Government records also use place names such as Shalibanda, Doodhbowli and Gowlipura in Hyderabad.
The organisation appealed to residents not to confront snake charmers if they spot snakes being displayed or handled. They should instead inform the authorities and GHSPCA so that rescue and legal action can be taken.
GHSPCA said capturing, possessing, displaying or harming protected wildlife may constitute offences under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
Emergency contacts: Telangana Forest Department — 1800 425 5364; GHSPCA — 88867 43881 and 93945 78568. GHSPCA’s official website lists 93945 78568 and 88867 43881 among its 24×7 contact numbers.
