In a deeply saddening incident from Ahmedabad, Police Inspector Banraj Manjharia has lost his life to rabies—an outcome that has shocked both the medical community and the public. The officer reportedly contracted the virus after a minor scratch from his pet German Shepherd, a case that underscores the unpredictable nature of rabies transmission and the importance of timely medical intervention.
The incident occurred five days prior to his death, when Manjharia was scratched by his dog’s nail. Believing the risk to be minimal—especially since the dog was vaccinated and the injury was not a bite—he chose not to seek medical treatment. Unfortunately, this decision proved fatal. Rabies, though preventable, can be deadly if left untreated, even in cases that appear minor.
As his condition deteriorated, Manjharia was admitted to a local hospital where doctors attempted to manage the infection. Despite their efforts, he succumbed to the disease, leaving behind grieving family members, colleagues, and a community in mourning. His death has sparked renewed conversations around rabies awareness and the need for caution, even in seemingly low-risk situations.
Medical experts emphasize that any contact with an animal’s saliva or claws—especially involving broken skin—should be treated seriously. While pet vaccinations significantly reduce risk, they do not eliminate it entirely. The tragic loss of Inspector Manjharia serves as a painful reminder that rabies remains a threat, and vigilance is essential.