PETAs call to protect snakes

BANGALORE: In the wake of Nag Panchami on August 4, People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA), an NGO working for the welfare of animals has called upon the public to avoid snake shows and report about such activities to PETA authorities in the city.According to the Wildlife Protection Act (1972), exploiting snakes for business purpose or even owning them is an act of crime. "Nag Panchami is held in the honor of the serpent god Nag Deva, but snake charmers captivate snakes, yank their teeth out and take them to cities to make money," said Poorva Joshipura, India chief functionary, PETA."We request the public to show compassion for these tormented animals by being snake guardians and reporting snake collectors and snake charmers to authorities," he added.Snake rescuersThe members of the public can contact snake rescuers Sharad on 9880108801 and Mahesh on 9916968959.Further, the public can also inform the State Forest Department if they see a snake which needs to be rescued, he said.