SNAKE VENOM ADDICTION (Syllabus: GS Paper 3 – Sci and Tech)

Context: A well-known television personality was recently arrested in connection with the snake venom-rave party case and remanded to 14-day judicial custody. He is facing charges under the Wildlife Act in Noida for orchestrating snake venom at rave gatherings.

Background of the Case

• About: The case surrounds the alleged use of snake venom as a recreational drug at rave parties in Noida last year. A person is accused of arranging the snake venom at his parties and using snakes in his video shoots.

Snake Venom Addiction

• Unusual Substance Abuse: Snake venom addiction is a peculiar form of substance abuse wherein individuals deliberately expose themselves to snake venom for its intoxicating effects.
• Neurotoxic Intoxication: The venom induces symptoms akin to intoxication due to the neurotoxins it contains, leading to altered mental states and physical sensations.
• Extreme Danger and Uncommon Practice: This addiction, also termed ophidism, poses severe risks to life and health and is not commonly observed in India, highlighting its unusual nature.
• Deadly Effects: The effects of snake venom can be highly unpredictable and potentially fatal, lasting for days and leading to various medical complications.
• Risk of Dependency: Prolonged exposure to snake venom may result in physical and psychological dependence among users, exacerbating the dangers associated with this form of addiction.
• Legal Framework: The use and possession of drugs, including those derived from snake venom, are regulated by the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act of 1985, underlining the legal ramifications of such practices.