Shocking Incident: Over 100 Children Fall Ill After Dead Snake Found in School Meal
In a disturbing incident that has garnered national attention, over 100 children were reported ill after consuming a school meal contaminated by a dead snake. This shocking revelation has prompted the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) to launch a comprehensive investigation.
A Meal Turned Nightmarish
On April 25, a cook at a government school in the Mokama area of Patna, Bihar, removed a dead snake from the Mid-Day Meal. This contaminated food was then served to approximately 500 unsuspecting students, according to a report from the NHRC.
Rising Health Concerns
Before long, more than 100 children began to display symptoms that included vomiting and dizziness. Disturbingly, at least two dozen required hospitalization to receive necessary medical care. Reports indicate that teachers fled the school after realizing the extent of the situation, leaving the children vulnerable. Fortunately, local police intervened to transport the ailing students to medical facilities.
Community Outcry
The reaction from the community has been one of outrage and disbelief. Villagers mobilized, blocking roads in protest against the negligence surrounding the school’s food hygiene.
“The Commission has observed that the contents, if true, raise a serious issue of violation of the human rights of the students,” the NHRC stated.
Government Accountability
In response to this catastrophic event, the NHRC has officially issued notices to several local government officials and agencies, requesting a thorough report on the incident and a health update on the affected children to be submitted within two weeks.
Interestingly, initial medical examinations have shown no traces of poisonous substances in the children’s systems, easing some immediate fears about their health.
A Pattern of Danger
This is not an isolated incident; the history of food safety in Bihar schools raises serious concerns. In 2013, a similar tragedy unfolded when 23 children died after consuming food containing toxic pesticide levels, further highlighting the dangers within the Mid-Day Meal program.
The Mid-Day Meal Initiative
Launched in 1995, India’s Mid-Day Meal program was conceptualized to combat undernourishment among students, aiming to provide free lunches in government-funded schools. The meals are designed to deliver a minimum of 300 calories and 8-12 grams of protein daily (Ministry of Education).
A Bleak Reality
Despite these good intentions, the reality remains stark. Over 190 million people in India are classified as undernourished, with the poverty rate hovering around 30% (United Nations). This incident underscores the urgent need to prioritize food safety and children’s health in educational institutions.
Conclusion
As authorities investigate this alarming case, the story serves as a wake-up call to ensure the safety and nutritional well-being of children across India. The NHRC’s actions may set a precedent for more stringent measures to prevent such incidents in the future.
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