Keonjhar, Sept. 21 (UDN): A tragic snakebite death at Anandapur Sub-Divisional Headquarters Hospital in Odisha’s Keonjhar district took an unusual turn when the deceased youth’s family reportedly brought traditional healers to the hospital in the hope of reviving him.
The incident occurred on Monday after Sushil Kumar Bhitiria, a resident of Bhandaridihi village under Ghasipura police limits, died following a suspected venomous snakebite.
Youth Dies Despite Medical Treatment
According to reports, Sushil was bitten on the leg by a snake at his home on Sunday.
His family members and neighbours rushed him to Anandapur Medical for treatment. Despite medical intervention, his condition reportedly deteriorated and doctors subsequently declared him dead.
However, family members and others reportedly continued to believe that he could be revived.
Rituals Performed Inside Hospital
Following the doctor’s declaration, the family allegedly called traditional healers to the hospital premises.
Two such healers reportedly performed rituals over the deceased’s body, with the family hoping that the effects of the snakebite could somehow be reversed.
Neighbours present at the hospital said the rituals continued for some time but did not result in any change.
One neighbour said the family had initially rushed Sushil to the hospital immediately after the snakebite and remained hopeful despite the doctor’s declaration.
Traditional Healer Rejects Ritual-Healing Claim
A person identified as Dhruba, who was described as a traditional snakebite healer, said he treats snakebite cases but denied performing any ritual to revive the deceased.
He claimed to have treated several snakebite victims in the past, while maintaining that he would not undertake treatment when the victim was no longer alive.
Snakebite Treatment Raises Concern
The incident has once again highlighted concerns surrounding delays or reliance on non-medical practices in snakebite cases.
Health authorities generally emphasise the importance of seeking immediate medical care after a snakebite, particularly because venomous bites can become life-threatening rapidly.
The circumstances surrounding the death and the events at the hospital are expected to be examined further.