Odisha: A tragic incident has unfolded in Mayurbhanj district of India, where more than 100 students of a government-run residential school fell ill after consuming a meal, with one child losing her life.
Officials said the students of Kakabandha Ashram School began experiencing severe discomfort, including vomiting and diarrhoea, on Sunday morning. The symptoms reportedly emerged after they consumed food items that were not part of the approved menu.
According to preliminary information, the children had eaten traditional dishes such as fermented rice (pakhala), mashed potatoes, and mango chutney. Soon after, a large number of students complained of illness, triggering panic among school authorities.
Over 100 affected students were initially taken to a nearby Community Health Centre. As their condition worsened, 67 of them were referred to PRM Medical College and Hospital in Baripada for advanced treatment.
District Collector Hema Kanta Sai confirmed that a Class 5 student, Rupali Besra, who had been admitted to the Intensive Care Unit, passed away on Tuesday despite medical efforts. At present, dozens of students continue to receive treatment at different medical facilities, with doctors closely monitoring their condition.
In response to the incident, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi expressed grief over the child’s death and ordered a detailed probe. The Revenue Divisional Commissioner has been directed to visit the area and investigate the circumstances leading to the outbreak.
The state government has also announced financial assistance of ₹3 lakh for the bereaved family. Meanwhile, medical teams have been deployed both at the school and health centres to manage the situation and prevent further complications.
Authorities are now examining possible lapses in food safety and hygiene, as concerns grow over the quality and monitoring of meals provided in residential institutions.
