Tamil Nadu Assembly sees ‘Nagadosham’ vs ‘Jaladosham’ banter as ministers debate over snakebite incidents

The Tamil Nadu Assembly experienced a humorous debate on Wednesday as DMK member O Panneerselvam jokingly accused a recent increase in snakebite cases to be caused by a serpent curse, or "Nagadosham." Health Minister K G Arunraj dismissed this notion, stating that the state adheres to scientific principles and is addressing common cold cases instead of any alleged serpent curse.

Panneerselvam, who has also held the position of state chief minister, raised the issue while discussing a series of snakebite incidents reported from various constituencies. He jokingly asked Arunraj to organize state-funded temple rituals to dispel the supposed curse. Arunraj rejected the proposal, emphasizing that the administration relies on medical science rather than astrological beliefs.

Another minister, Aadhav Arjuna, joined the conversation and pointed out Tamil Nadu's historical commitment to rationalist ideals, stating that the government tackles problems through reason rather than magical solutions. The Leader of the Opposition, DMK's Udhayanidhi Stalin, clarified the context of Panneerselvam's remarks, clarifying that the senior member had made the playful comment about DMK deputy leader K N Nehru, who was currently hospitalized with a severe cold.

Assembly Speaker JCD Prabhakar ended the exchange, cautioning Panneerselvam to take precautionary measures, or he might catch a cold himself. The lighthearted discussion attracted laughter from both the Treasury and Opposition benches.