Schoolchildren Hospitalised After Eating Suspected Contaminated Meal in Bihar

Patna:  A food poisoning incident was reported at Madhya Vidyalaya Shankarpatti in Chhatapur block of Supaul district in Bihar on Saturday, where around 80 students fell ill after consuming the mid-day meal (MDM). The incident led to panic among parents and prompted immediate medical intervention.

Shortly after eating lunch, students began experiencing symptoms such as stomach ache, vomiting, nausea, and headache. They were taken to the Community Health Centre (CHC) in Chhatapur, where they were treated with saline and medication.

According to CHC in-charge Dr. Naveen Kumar, most of the children are now stable, though around 18 students remain under observation for continued care. Medical staff, including officers, ANMs, and health workers, worked throughout the day to manage the situation.

Block Development Officer (BDO) Dr. Rakesh Gupta, along with Circle Officer (CO) Rakesh Kumar and Station In-Charge Krishna Kumar Singh, visited the CHC to monitor the condition of the children and coordinate the response.

“The health of the children has deteriorated due to food poisoning. An FIR is being registered in the matter at the BEO level. Whoever is found guilty in the investigation, appropriate action will be taken,” said Dr. Rakesh Gupta.

Several students alleged that the khichdi served during the meal was made from rotten rice that contained worms and larvae. Some also claimed they were forced to eat the food despite objections.

“The cook had refused to prepare khichdi using the rice, but it was prepared under pressure from the HM. After consuming it, children started falling ill within half an hour,” alleged a parent outside the CHC.

Students said Headmaster Harishchandra Kumar insisted they eat the meal. “He threatened us with a ladle when we tried to leave without eating,” one of the children claimed.

The BDO has confirmed the food poisoning and assured a full investigation is underway. The incident has once again highlighted the need for stronger food safety checks under the Mid-Day Meal Scheme to ensure children’s health and safety in schools.

(With inputs from IANS)