Migrant worker sparks panic after carrying snake in pocket in Malappuram

Kozhikode: Even as soaring temperatures heighten concerns of increased snake incursions into human habitations, a migrant worker in Othayi, Malappuram, sparked alarm after he was found carrying a small snake in his trouser pocket. The youth, identified as 28-year-old Dina, was taken to Manjeri govt medical college hospital (MCH), where he was kept under observation and discharged after doctors confirmed that the snake was non-venomous. The incident came to light after a video surfaced showing Dina standing near a tea shop at Othayi, surrounded by curious onlookers. According to locals, he initially showed the snake to a few people, drawing a crowd. As tension mounted, those gathered asked him to remove it from his pocket. He then pulled out the snake and placed it on the road. Subsequently, residents urged him to secure the reptile safely, following which he placed it inside a plastic cover. He later visited a nearby clinic in Othayi after a bite mark was noticed on his hand and was referred to Manjeri MCH for further evaluation. Dr Shanavas P, head of emergency medicine at Manjeri MCH, said the snake was identified as an Indian sand boa which was non-venomous. The youth was monitored as a precaution and later discharged. Hospital sources added that Dina had a minor abrasion on his hand. However, as the species is non-venomous, there was no cause for concern. Authorities have reiterated the need for caution, noting that extreme heat can drive snakes out of their natural habitats and into human settlements.