In a bizarre and shocking incident from Bihar`s West Champaran district, a one-year-old boy survived after biting a cobra to death, mistaking the deadly snake for a toy.
The incident took place on Friday afternoon in Bettiah town, when the toddler, identified as Govinda, was playing at home.
According to local media reports, a two-foot-long cobra had slithered into the house. Unaware of the danger, the child picked up the snake and bit it, reportedly tearing the reptile into two pieces. The cobra died on the spot.
Shortly after the incident, Govinda fell unconscious and was immediately taken to the Majhauliya Primary Health Centre for treatment. He was later referred to Bettiah Government Medical College and Hospital for further observation and care.
Dr. Devikant Mishra, Deputy Superintendent of JMCH, told Live Hindustan that the child showed no signs of venom poisoning and is now out of danger. Medical professionals continue to monitor him as a precaution.
The child’s grandmother confirmed that the boy mistook the snake for a plaything. Locals added that the cobra had likely come too close, triggering the toddler’s reaction, which they described as instinctive.
Wildlife experts attribute such incidents to the increasing human-wildlife conflict caused by monsoon flooding and unplanned urban development, which have forced snakes out of their natural habitats. Cities like Gurugram have seen a spike in snake sightings recently, with over 85 snakes rescued in July alone.
Cobras are among the most venomous snakes in the world, and snakebite-related fatalities remain common in India. In a separate tragic incident in Punjab`s Ludhiana district just days ago, two sisters lost their lives after being bitten by a snake while sleeping on a rooftop.
