Daijiworld Media Network - Ponda

Ponda, May 15: Congress leader Dr Ketan Bhatikar was declared dead in the early hours of Friday after he was brought to the Dharbandora Primary Health Centre (PHC) from the biodiversity area of Mollem under mysterious circumstances.

According to sources, Dr Bhatikar was transported to the PHC in a 108 ambulance at around 3.30 am. He was examined by duty doctor Dr Balakrishna, who declared him dead at approximately 3.45 am.

Medical officials stated that the deceased showed no signs of response during examination. Doctors also observed that his lips had turned blue, leading to suspicion of a possible snake bite.

Following the incident, police were informed and the body was shifted for postmortem examination to ascertain the exact cause of death.

Authorities said investigations are underway and all possible angles, including suspected snake bite, are being examined.

Further details are awaited.