A tragic incident has shocked the people of Samastipur district as Jai Kumar Sahni, a well-known snake rescuer fondly referred to as the “Snake Man,” lost his life after being bitten by a venomous snake during a rescue operation. Sahni had been working tirelessly for the past five years to protect snakes and educate people about them.
Jai Kumar Sahni, 35, was not just a familiar name in Samastipur but also in nearby districts. He became known for his unique mission – rescuing snakes from human habitats and releasing them safely into the wild. Locals admired his fearlessness and compassion, often calling him the ‘savior of snakes’ Over the years, he is believed to have rescued more than 2,000 snakes, including some of the most dangerous species.
The final rescue that turned fatal
On a routine call from a nearby village on Wednesday afternoon, Sahni set out to capture a venomous snake that had entered a residential area. While attempting the rescue, he was bitten on his right thumb. Although help arrived quickly and he was rushed to the Samastipur Sadar Hospital, his condition worsened rapidly. Doctors declared him dead upon arrival, leaving his family and the community in deep mourning.
A social media figure and wildlife advocate
Jai Kumar wasn’t just known in his locality; his rescue videos often went viral on social media, drawing attention to his work and the importance of coexisting with wildlife. He regularly educated the public about snake behavior, the medical steps to take in case of a bite, and ways to prevent human-snake conflict. His mission was not only to save reptiles but also to change public perception about them.
A warning for the brave and the curious
While his courage is commendable, the lack of anti-venom availability or timely advanced treatment also points to larger issues in rural emergency care. As tributes pour in, Jai Kumar Sahni is being remembered as a hero who gave his life to a cause he believed in-but his tragic end also underlines the need for better training, protective equipment, and support for those involved in wildlife rescue.
