The death of well-known physiotherapist Dr Ketan Bhatikar has shocked Goa. Reports said he died after a snake bite while returning from Dandeli.
Though police registered an unnatural death and the postmortem reportedly mentioned two snake bites, several circumstances have raised suspicion. After the by-poll cancellation, Dr Bhatikar had challenged the Election Commission in the Supreme Court. Following the death of Ponda MLA Ravi Naik, many believed Dr Bhatikar had emerged as a strong political contender.
During the Covid pandemic, he formed a disaster management team in Ponda and earned respect for his selfless social service. Paying tribute, Utpal Parrikar said Goa would rarely find another politician so devoted to people.
Questions have also arisen as Dr Bhatikar’s regular driver was absent during the trip. Animal rescuer Amrut Singh and 108 ambulance staff claimed the circumstances surrounding the death appeared unusual. Many Goans are now demanding a thorough probe by central investigating agencies.
