In yet another tragic incident highlighting the dangers of superstition and delayed medical intervention, a woman lost her life after her family allegedly chose traditional faith-healing practices over immediate hospital treatment following a snakebite incident in Odisha’s Mayurbhanj district.

The heartbreaking incident took place at Chandrapur village under Udala police limits on Tuesday. The deceased has been identified as Sing Murmu, a resident of the village.

According to reports, Murmu was bitten by a venomous snake in the morning. After learning about the incident, family members reportedly did not take her to a hospital for urgent medical care. Instead, they took her to a local faith healer in Garudabasa village for ritualistic treatment which are commonly associated with superstitious beliefs.

Sources said the woman underwent the ritual treatment for a prolonged period. However, instead of showing signs of recovery, her condition continued to deteriorate. Realising the seriousness of her health condition, family members eventually rushed her to a hospital.

Also Read: Superstition over Science: Snakebite death sparks blind faith in Odisha

Unfortunately, by the time she was brought to the medical facility, it was too late. Doctors examined her and declared her dead on arrival.

After receiving information about the incident, Udala police reached the hospital, seized the body and initiated an investigation into the matter.

“We had taken her to a local faith healer in Garudabasa. However, her condition didn’t improve despite the ritual treatment. Eventually, we took her to the hospital. However, doctors declared her dead on arrival,” said Geda Tudu, nephew of the deceased.