SB 12.6.27
tasmat satram idam rajan
samsthiyetabhicarikam
sarpa anagaso dagdha
janair distam hi bhujyate
Translation:
Therefore, my dear King, please stop this sacrificial performance, which was initiated with the intent of doing harm to others. Many innocent snakes have already been burned to death. Indeed, all persons must suffer the unforeseen consequences of their past activities.
Purport:
Brhaspati here admits that although the snakes appeared to be innocent, by the Lord’s arrangement they were also being punished for previous vicious activities.