Bihar: Dozens of Students Fall Ill After Mid-Day Meal at Government School in Madhepura

Patna: 70 students fell ill after eating a midday meal in a government school in Madhepura. The incident took place in Girls Higher Secondary School. The children complained of vomiting and diarrhea a few hours after eating the food. The school administration immediately took the children to the hospital, where their treatment was started. It is being said that most of the children are fine now. While the condition of some is said to be critical. After this incident, questions have again been raised on the quality of midday meals provided in the schools of the state.

What was there to eat in the midday meal?

Rice and pulses were given to the children in the midday meal. While some children also ate vegetables. Initially there were complaints of a bad smell in rice. The administration said that the matter is under investigation. Food samples have also been taken.

How is the condition of the children?

70 students have been affected in this matter. Most of them are between 6 and 12 years old. Vomiting, diarrhea and stomach ache occurred. He was admitted to Sadar Hospital, where doctors started his treatment. Now 50 children have recovered and returned home, while 20 are still under observation.

What action did the administration take?

DM has ordered an investigation into the matter. Questions are being raised on the food preparation agency. Investigation of the school kitchen has been started. Midday meal supply banned. Old material will not be used until further orders.

What is the reaction of the parents?

The parents of the children are angry. Many parents reached the school and sought answers from the administration. At the same time, some family members staged a protest. Questions are being raised by parents about the safety of children.

Have such incidents happened before in the midday meal?

Such incidents have happened many times in Bihar regarding midday meals. In most such cases, poor material or lack of cleanliness is said to be the reason. The government conducted an investigation earlier also. Now the strictness has been increased.

What did the district administration say?

DM said that the matter is under investigation. If found guilty, action will be taken. He said that all the children are being given free treatment. He claimed that cleanliness will be increased in schools. Also, midday meal quality will be checked.

Why is this incident serious?

A midday meal is mandatory in government schools. Poor children depend on this. Bad food increases health risks. This breaks the trust of parents. Questions are being raised on the Bihar government. Now the investigation report is awaited. Many children are recovering. The administration has assured that vigilance has been increased in schools.