Wed Jul 02 18:30:00 UTC 2025: **News Article:**

**Maharashtra MLAs Push for Revival of Snake Worship Festival Amid Conservation Concerns**

**Mumbai, July 3, 2025** – Members of the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly are urging the state government to explore options for reviving the traditional practice of worshipping live snakes during the Nag Panchami festival in Battis Shirala, Sangli district. The ritual was banned by the Bombay High Court in 2002 following concerns about animal welfare.

During a Calling Attention Motion on Wednesday, BJP MLA Satyajit Deshmukh argued that the festival holds deep cultural and religious significance for the local community. He drew comparisons to the Supreme Court’s decision to allow Jallikattu in Tamil Nadu, suggesting that similar safeguards could be implemented to protect the snakes while preserving the tradition. He emphasized that locals revere the snakes and return them unharmed to the wild.

Forest Minister Ganesh Naik acknowledged the tradition’s importance and stated that the matter would be discussed with Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav in upcoming meetings. “We are committed to ensuring that such cultural traditions are preserved without compromising wildlife protection norms,” Naik said, adding that the government would explore options to revive the practice while safeguarding both heritage and animal welfare.

NCP (SP) leader Jayant Patil and BJP MLA Gopichand Padalkar supported the appeal, highlighting the festival’s unique appeal to tourists and its contribution to cultural tourism. The MLAs argue that no injuries or fatalities have ever been reported from snake handling during the festival.

The debate highlights the ongoing tension between preserving cultural traditions and ensuring animal welfare. The government’s upcoming discussions with the Union Environment Minister will be crucial in determining the future of the Nag Panchami festival in Battis Shirala.

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