Over 100 people fell ill with food poisoning after consuming sweets at a wedding in Rajasthan's Bhilwara district, officials said on Tuesday. The incident occurred in the Banera area, where guests began experiencing symptoms like vomiting and diarrhea shortly after eating the sweets.
Details of the Incident
The wedding was held on Monday night, and by early Tuesday morning, many attendees reported severe stomach pain and nausea. Local health authorities were alerted, and medical teams were dispatched to the scene. The affected individuals were rushed to nearby hospitals, including the Banera Community Health Centre and Bhilwara's Mahatma Gandhi Hospital.
Medical Response
Dr. Ramesh Meena, Chief Medical Officer of Bhilwara, confirmed that over 100 patients were treated. "Most patients are stable and have been discharged after primary treatment. A few are still under observation," he said. Health officials collected samples of the sweets for laboratory analysis to determine the cause of contamination.
Investigation Launched
The district administration has ordered an investigation into the incident. Food safety officials inspected the venue and the sweet shop that supplied the items. Preliminary reports suggest that the sweets may have been prepared in unhygienic conditions or stored improperly. The shop owner has been summoned for questioning.
Similar Incidents in Rajasthan
Food poisoning cases during weddings are not uncommon in Rajasthan. Last year, a similar incident in Jaipur affected over 50 people. Authorities urge the public to ensure food quality and hygiene during large gatherings. The state government has also launched awareness campaigns on food safety.
Residents in the area expressed concern over the incident. "We trusted the caterer, but this negligence is unacceptable. Many children were affected, and it was a terrifying experience," said a relative of the bride. The wedding festivities were cut short as families rushed to hospitals.
Preventive Measures
Health experts recommend that wedding organizers verify the hygiene standards of caterers and avoid consuming food that has been left out for long periods. The use of preservatives and artificial colors in sweets can also lead to reactions. In this case, the exact cause is still under investigation.
As of now, no deaths have been reported, and most patients are recovering. The district administration has assured strict action against those responsible for the lapse.
