Tragic Incident: Congress Leader Ketan Bhatikar Passes Away Due to Suspected Snakebite

Goa witnessed a tragic incident as Congress leader Ketan Bhatikar, aged 40, lost his life in the early hours of Friday due to a suspected snakebite. The incident occurred while Bhatikar and a friend were returning to Goa from Karnataka late at night, taking a break in a forested area where the unfortunate incident took place.

Political and Professional Background

Bhatikar, a physiotherapist by profession, was the Congress candidate in the recent Ponda Assembly bypoll, which was cancelled following a High Court order. He had challenged the order in the Supreme Court, where his plea is currently pending.

The Tragic Event

According to police reports, the incident occurred during a stop at Anmod in Karnataka, near a forest checkpoint, while Bhatikar and his friend were on their way back from Dandeli in Karnataka. It is believed that he was bitten by a snake during this break, leading to the unfortunate turn of events.

He was rushed to a primary health center in Dharbandora, Goa, in an unresponsive state and was declared dead around 3:45 am. The postmortem examination revealed the cause of death as cerebral and pulmonary edema from neurotoxic snakebite poisoning, with the snake biting him on his right wrist.

Condolences and Reactions

Leaders from across political parties offered their condolences on the untimely demise of Dr. Ketan Bhatikar. Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant expressed deep shock and sadness, highlighting Bhatikar's contributions to the medical community. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi also mourned the loss, acknowledging Bhatikar's dedication to serving the people.

Political Journey

Bhatikar had ventured into politics in 2017, contesting the Assembly election from Panaji on a ticket from the Goa Suraksha Manch. He later joined the Maharashtrawadi Gomantak Party (MGP) and contested the Ponda Assembly seat in 2022, narrowly losing to the BJP's Ravi Naik.

Legal Battle

Following the vacancy of the Ponda Assembly seat, Bhatikar's legal battle against the High Court's order regarding the conduct of by-elections was ongoing in the Supreme Court through a Special Leave Petition.

Goa mourns the loss of a dedicated professional and emerging political figure as Dr. Ketan Bhatikar's sudden demise leaves a void in the community. Stay updated with the latest news by following us on Instagram.