Kerala Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala has corrected his earlier controversial remark suggesting that the bite of a viper snakelet can lead to intoxication, following sharp criticism from medical experts. The minister's initial statement, made during a public interaction, claimed that some individuals intentionally seek viper bites for a hallucinogenic effect, a notion that medical professionals have strongly refuted.
Minister's Initial Remark Sparks Controversy
During an event in Thiruvananthapuram, Chennithala reportedly said that certain people in Kerala deliberately provoke viper snakelets to be bitten, believing the venom induces a state of intoxication. He linked this to the state's ongoing drug abuse concerns, suggesting that such practices were an alternative form of substance use. The comment was widely circulated on social media and news outlets, drawing immediate backlash from the medical community.
Medical Expert Calls Out Misinformation
Dr. Shimna Azeez, a prominent toxicologist based in Kozhikode, publicly criticized the minister's statement, calling it medically inaccurate and potentially dangerous. She stated that the misleading remark about a medically wrong matter could even tempt someone to try it as well as to popularise such wrong practices. Dr. Azeez emphasized that viper venom is a complex mixture of toxins that causes severe tissue damage, coagulopathy, and systemic effects, not euphoria or intoxication. She warned that any attempt to use snakebites for recreational purposes could lead to permanent injury, amputation, or death.
Chennithala's Clarification and Apology
In response to the uproar, Chennithala issued a clarification on June 30, 2026, stating that his remarks were based on anecdotal reports and not on scientific evidence. He acknowledged the error and expressed regret for any confusion caused. The minister urged the public to disregard his earlier statement and reiterated that snakebites are a serious medical emergency requiring immediate treatment. He also directed the state health department to launch an awareness campaign about the dangers of snake venom and the importance of seeking timely medical care.
Context of Drug Abuse in Kerala
The controversy comes amid growing concerns over drug abuse in Kerala, particularly among youth. The state government has been implementing various measures to curb the use of synthetic drugs and narcotics. Chennithala's initial comment was part of a broader discussion on unconventional methods of intoxication, but it inadvertently highlighted the risks of misinformation in public discourse. Health officials have since stressed the need for accurate information dissemination to prevent harmful practices.
Expert Reactions and Public Response
Several other medical experts and herpetologists have supported Dr. Azeez's stance. Dr. K. P. Sreekumar, a herpetologist at the Kerala Forest Research Institute, noted that no scientific study supports the claim that snake venom produces a psychoactive effect. He added that the idea likely stems from folklore and should not be given credence. Public reaction has been mixed, with some praising the minister for correcting his mistake, while others criticized the initial gaffe as irresponsible.
Government's Next Steps
Following the incident, the Kerala government has announced plans to conduct workshops for public officials on scientific literacy and responsible communication. The health department will also collaborate with poison control centers to provide accurate information about snakebites and their treatment. This episode underscores the importance of evidence-based dialogue in public health matters.
