GMC Medak MBBS students raise safety concerns over snake sightings, scorpion stings; seek urgent intervention

MBBS students of Government Medical College Medak, Telangana, have raised safety concerns over poor hostel facilities and unhygienic mess conditions. Videos circulating on social media show a snake inside the hostel as well as water leaking from ceiling above the hostel’s mess.

Reportedly, two students have also suffered scorpion stings.

According to the FAIMA Doctors Association statement, the medical college’s hostel has become “highly unsafe”, with snakes and scorpions entering the campus and students' rooms. With the rainy season underway, the risk of snake and scorpion bites is rising.

“Poisonous snakes, including Russell's vipers, cobras, and kraits, have been repeatedly spotted moving around the hostel premises and entering rooms, creating fear among students and posing a grave threat to their safety,” the FAIMA statement said.

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FAIMA statement also highlighted that as MBBS students are preparing for their university exams in coming months. Instead of studying in a safe environment, they are being forced to live under “constant fear,” which is affecting their mental well-being and academic preparation.

FAIMA has urged Telangana CM, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare and NMC to intervene and ensure safety of students.

The doctor’s body posted on its official X account and said: “We urge the Telangana CM, the Ministry of health and family welfare (MoHFW_INDIA) and the National Medical Commission (NMC) to intervene immediately and ensure a safe hostel, proper pest control, and urgent infrastructure repairs.”

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GMC Medak: Unhygienic mess

The condition of the hostel mess is “equally distressing”, FAIMA said.

During rainfall, water leaks into the dining hall, making it hard for students to eat in hygienic conditions. The poor maintenance of the mess has only added to the difficulties faced by students.

“The safety, health, and welfare of medical students must be treated as a priority, and prompt intervention is essential to prevent any unfortunate incidents,” FAIMA added in its statement.

The doctors’ body has further urged the authorities to take immediate action by ensuring effective snake and pest control measures. The other conditions include improving hostel safety, repairing the hostel infrastructure, and renovating the mess facilities.