Noida-based YouTuber Elvish Yadav, recently booked by the local police on allegations of using snake venom at rave parties, has vehemently denied all charges and expressed his willingness to cooperate with the Uttar Pradesh Police. The controversy has unfolded as BJP MP Maneka Gandhi, whose NGO filed the complaint against the popular influencer, has called for Yadav’s immediate arrest and raised concerns about the illegal use of snakes in his videos.
Maneka Gandhi, a prominent animal rights advocate, emphasized the seriousness of the allegations, categorizing them as a Grade 1 crime carrying a potential seven-year jail sentence, highlighting that it falls under the ambit of wildlife crime. She explained that extracting venom from king cobras, as allegedly done in this case, is not only illegal but also fatal to these endangered reptiles, as venom is crucial for their digestion and survival.
Gandhi further expressed her concerns about the dwindling population of cobras and pythons in the country and stressed that it is against the law to own, catch, or use them for any purpose. She suggested the possibility of a larger illicit network involved in these activities.
Maneka Gandhi’s NGO had been monitoring Elvish Yadav for some time due to his use of snakes in his YouTube videos. The revelation that snake venom was being sold prompted the complaint against Yadav and others.
Responding to Yadav’s assertion of innocence, Maneka Gandhi raised questions about his absconding status, implying that individuals might resort to extreme measures to remain in the limelight. She underscored the dangers associated with snake venom, highlighting its potential to cause severe health issues, including liver and kidney failure, as well as dizziness.
In response to these allegations, Elvish Yadav released a statement firmly denying any wrongdoing and deeming all accusations baseless and fake. He offered to take responsibility if even 1% of his involvement in the alleged activities is proven. He also urged the media to refrain from defaming him until an official investigation has been conducted. Addressing Maneka Gandhi’s comments, Yadav expressed shock and suggested that she should be prepared to apologize if her accusations are proven unfounded.
The controversy began with a complaint filed by People For Animals, the NGO led by Maneka Gandhi. The complaint alleged that they contacted Elvish Yadav, requesting him to arrange a rave party with Cobra venom. Yadav allegedly referred them to an individual named Rahul, who claimed to have access to the venom. Subsequently, the Noida police, accompanied by the District Forest Officer (DFO), apprehended the organizers at a banquet hall in Sector 51 and arrested five individuals, all of whom reportedly implicated Elvish Yadav in the case.
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Source: Hindustan Times
