BIJNOR: A 50-year-old man from Uttar Pradesh is fighting for his life after a snake bit him on the tongue while he attempted to kiss it for a social media video. The incident, which took place on Friday evening in Haibatpur village of Amroha district, has gone viral and drawn sharp criticism online.
The man, identified as Jitendra Kumar, a marginal farmer, had reportedly caught the snake after it emerged from a wall in the village, causing panic among residents. Attempting to showcase his bravery, Kumar wrapped the reptile around his neck and began posing with it, aiming to record a video to impress viewers.
Eyewitnesses said several villagers gathered and recorded Kumar’s antics on their phones. In the video, Kumar is seen holding the snake close to his face. As he sticks out his tongue towards the reptile in an apparent attempt to kiss it, the snake strikes without warning, biting him directly on the tongue, leaving bystanders horrified.
Locals claimed Kumar was under the influence of alcohol and was seen smoking during the stunt. Moments after the bite, his condition worsened rapidly. He was immediately rushed to a local hospital and later referred to a higher medical facility in Moradabad for advanced care.
The village head, Jaikirat Singh, confirmed that Kumar is currently in the ICU of a private hospital and remains in critical condition. “Jitendra tried to perform a stunt with the snake, which he had captured himself. When he loosened his grip, the snake bit him and then disappeared into nearby bushes,” Singh said.
Despite the seriousness of the incident, Kumar’s family has not filed a report with the police. The widely circulated video has sparked outrage and mockery on social media, with many netizens warning against dangerous stunts for viral fame.
Authorities have urged the public to refrain from handling wild animals and to seek professional help in such situations.
