A tragic incident of suspected food poisoning has claimed the life of a 15-year-old boy and left three other children hospitalized in Chhattisgarh's Janjgir-Champa district. The event occurred in Dhurkot village, triggering panic among residents and prompting an immediate investigation by the district administration on Monday.
Incident Details
The four children, who were visiting their maternal uncle's house from Dalha Podi village, fell ill late Saturday night after consuming watermelon and chicken. Shortly after the meal, they began experiencing severe vomiting and diarrhea. Family members rushed them to a nearby hospital, but Akhilesh Dheewar (15) succumbed on the way. The other three victims—Pintu (12), Hitesh (13), and a four-year-old child—were admitted to the district hospital, where doctors have reported their condition as stable.
Medical Response and Investigations
Doctors suspect food poisoning as the cause, but the exact origin will be confirmed only after laboratory analysis. Dr. Iqbal Hussain of the district hospital stated, “The child brought in the morning had already passed away. The other patients are under treatment and are now stable.” The body of the deceased has been sent for postmortem, and viscera samples have been preserved to determine the precise cause of death. Additionally, samples of the suspected food items, including watermelon, have been forwarded for testing.
A government statement issued late Monday said, “Taking immediate cognizance of the incident, District Collector Janmejaya Mahobe directed officials to rush medical teams to the village and ensure health screening of all family members and nearby residents. The SDM and health officials were deputed to monitor the situation on the ground.”
Community Impact and Preventive Measures
Civil surgeon S. Kujur noted that preliminary findings indicate the children fell ill after consuming the food, but investigations are ongoing to confirm the contamination source. Health teams have initiated door-to-door checks in Dhurkot village, and authorities have assured that strict action will be taken once responsibility is established through the probe.
The incident has left the village in shock, with residents expressing deep concern over food safety and demanding clarity on the cause. The district administration continues to monitor the situation closely.
