Hyderabad Animal Welfare Group Urges End to Milk Offerings to Snakes During Naga Panchami

The Greater Hyderabad Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (GHSPCA) has appealed to the public to cease the practice of offering milk to snakes, particularly during the observance of Naga Panchami on August 17. The animal welfare organization emphasizes that milk is not a natural food for snakes and can cause significant health problems for the reptiles.

GHSPCA has been actively involved in rescuing, treating, and rehoming snakes since 2005, with a notable increase in such activities around Naga Panchami. The organization reports having rescued 5,366 snakes during the festival period over the years.

The group highlighted that snakes, especially cobras, are sometimes captured illegally in the weeks leading up to Naga Panchami. These animals reportedly endure severe mistreatment from snake charmers, which can include the removal of fangs, damage to venom glands, mouth injuries, and confinement in poor conditions without adequate food.

Rescued snakes are often displayed publicly and subjected to practices such as forced milk consumption or the application of substances like kumkum. In response, GHSPCA, in collaboration with the Forest Department and other animal welfare groups in Telangana and Andhra Pradesh, plans to conduct rescue and awareness operations during Naga Panchami. Volunteers from GHSPCA and People for Animals are scheduled to carry out these activities in various Hyderabad neighborhoods, including Shalibanda, Hussaini Alam, Gowlipura, Begum Bazar, Doodhbowli, Lal Darwaza, Ramkoti, Moghalpura, and Kamatipura.