English
English
English
Over 100 students fall ill after having food at state-run residential school (Img: Internet)
Mayurbhanj: A Class 5 student died while more than 100 others fell ill after consuming a meal at a government-run residential school in Odisha’s Mayurbhanj district, officials said on Tuesday.
The incident occurred at Kakabandha Ashram School, where students reported discomfort soon after eating food served on Sunday morning.
According to officials, several students experienced symptoms such as vomiting and diarrhoea after consuming the meal. They were initially taken to a nearby community health centre for treatment.
UP: 150 people sick, one dead due to food poisoning in Saharanpur
Parents alleged that the food served included items such as fermented rice (pakhala), mashed potatoes and mango chutney, raising concerns over possible contamination.
More than 100 students were affected, with 67 later shifted to Pandit Raghunath Murmu Medical College and Hospital in Baripada as their condition worsened.
Officials said many students required close monitoring, while others continued to receive treatment at the community health facility.
Mayurbhanj District Collector Hema Kanta Say confirmed that a Class 5 student, identified as Rupali Besra, died during treatment at the hospital. She had been admitted to the intensive care unit after her condition deteriorated.
Despite medical efforts, she succumbed on Tuesday morning.
Authorities said medical teams have been deployed both at the hospital and the school to monitor the situation. Several students remain under treatment, while more are being admitted as a precautionary measure.
Officials are continuing to assess the health condition of all affected students.
The district administration has ordered a detailed inquiry into the incident. Officials said allegations have emerged that food not listed in the authorised menu was served.
UP: Food poisoning kills 4 kids at shelter in Lucknow, over dozen fall ill; For details…
The school’s headteacher has been suspended, and authorities indicated that further action will be taken against those found responsible.
A police case has been registered based on a complaint filed by the deceased student’s mother. Meanwhile, villagers staged protests and blocked a key road, demanding compensation and accountability.
The state government has announced an ex gratia of ₹7 lakh for the victim’s family. A state minister also visited the hospital to review the situation.
