Kochi: The Kerala government on Tuesday informed the High Court that Chief Secretary will convene a meeting on September 1 to finalise guidelines for tackling snakebites and ensuring timely treatment.

The move comes amid mounting criticism over lapses in the state’s public healthcare system, especially in snakebite management. The issue gained prominence after the 2019 death of a schoolgirl bitten by a snake inside her classroom, sparking public outcry.

A division bench comprising Chief Justice Nitin Jamdar and Justice Shoba Annamma Eapen was hearing a plea concerning the availability of basic healthcare in snakebite cases.

Earlier, the High Court had directed all parties involved—including the petitioners’ counsel, amicus curiae and the respondents’ counsel—to submit written suggestions to the Advocate General’s Office. These inputs will be forwarded to the Chief Secretary for drafting the final guidelines.

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The court further directed that a copy of the minutes of the September 1 meeting be filed in advance. The case will be considered again on September 11.

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