Class 1 student hospitalised in Kolkata school snake bite; second incident in a week

Kolkata: A Class 1 student was bitten by a snake inside a classroom at Mitra Institution in the Bhabanipur area of Kolkata on Monday morning. The incident took place at about 8:30 am, and the child was immediately taken to SSKM Medical College and Hospital. Doctors have reportedly said the student is stable.

This is the second reported snake bite in a city school within a week. On August 18, a Class 3 student was bitten by a snake in the washroom of the Heritage School on EM Bypass. In that case, doctors determined the snake was not venomous, and the girl was discharged the following day.

Suvendu Adhikari, the local MLA, said he spoke to the doctors and saw the student over a video call. “Doctors assured me that the child will be okay. This is not a small incident for me. I am also the MLA there,” he said. He promised appropriate action. Mr. Adhikari also alleged that the school has not received its composite grant for the past three years, a fund used to purchase cleaning materials such as carbolic acid and bleaching powder, which are also used to keep snakes away.

The school authorities have not commented on Mr. Adhikari's claim regarding the composite grant. Officials from the education department, however, said they would look into the matter.

Meanwhile, parents expressed concern and anxiety after the incident. One mother, waiting outside the school, said, “I took him out of the school immediately after he entered. We were so scared.” Another parent said that because the school authorities could not find the snake, they had no faith in sending their children back to class.

The head teacher of Mitra Institution, Raja Dey, said this was the first such incident in his tenure. He said the school has taken all necessary steps to investigate and will take immediate action.

Police and forest department officials have visited the school to inspect the premises. The investigation is ongoing.

The previous incident at Heritage School on August 18 had also worried parents. The girl was bitten in a washroom and admitted to a private hospital. She was discharged a day later after being examined. Although the snake was not venomous, the incident was a reminder of the risks that stray animals and reptiles can pose in school environments.

Experts suggest that schools, especially those in urban areas with older buildings and greenery, should carry out regular checks for snakes and other animals. Monsoon season often leads to increased snake activity. Preventive measures include sealing gaps in walls, keeping grass and vegetation trimmed, and using snake repellents. Schools should also train staff in first aid for snakebites and keep emergency contacts handy.

The recent incidents have left parents in the city asking for stronger safety protocols. They want regular inspections of classrooms, washrooms, and playgrounds. They also expect schools to conduct safety audits before each academic session.

The school authorities have assured that they are cooperating with the investigation and will take steps to prevent such incidents in the future. As parents wait for answers, the immediate need is to ensure that all educational institutions treat such risks seriously and act proactively.