MUMBAI: Answers may emerge on Wednesday regarding the tragic deaths of four family members at the Dodakia residence after 1 am on Sunday, with investigators examining whether watermelon played a role. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has collected samples of the fruit, water mixed with a cinnamon-like powder, pulao-biryani, raw rice, spices, and half-eaten dates for testing, with results anticipated on Wednesday.
FDA and Forensic Collaboration
An FDA official told TOI that the administration is working alongside police and forensic teams. “Food sample results will help solve one part of the mystery, but the forensic reports, which will take more time, are vital,” the official said. Another FDA official noted that the food samples have been shared with the forensic laboratory. The FDA's role will be limited to determining whether each sample meets regulatory standards by analyzing its composition against FSSAI profile norms. “This will tell us if a particular edible product is what is claimed to be or if it is something else. But whether it is toxic, only the forensic report will be able to confirm,” the official added.
Multi-Agency Investigation
The investigation involves four agencies: the Directorate of Forensic Science Laboratories at Kalina, JJ Marg police, the FDA, and JJ Hospital’s pathology department. A senior doctor from the hospital noted that symptoms, such as severe kidney impact, are typical of food poisoning but could also result from other substances. The hospital is analyzing renal samples, which may take weeks to yield results. Police sources said they have requested the Kalina forensic lab to prioritize the chemical analysis report, but the lab often takes months or even years due to a heavy backlog.
Victims and Family Background
The deceased from Bhendi Bazaar have been identified as Abdulla Dodakia, 44, who owned a mobile phone accessories shop in Andheri; his wife Nasreen, 35; and daughters Ayesha, 16, and Zainab, 12. Five other extended family members who attended a Saturday night feast of pulao-biryani but left before the four ate the watermelon reported no symptoms. Police found nothing suspicious on the family’s mobile phones, which have been sent for forensic analysis. The family’s financial history is also under investigation. “We still do not suspect foul play, but are waiting for the post-mortem and other reports to provide the exact cause of death,” a police officer said.
Community Concerns
Meanwhile, rumors in Bhendi Bazaar about another group of residents being rushed to JJ Hospital due to watermelon-linked food poisoning were dismissed by the hospital, which clarified no new patients have been admitted. In response to the deaths, Congress corporator Mohammed Amir Naseem Khan has written to mayor Ritu Tawde, urging an urgent review of food safety standards across restaurants, cloud kitchens, and online delivery platforms. (Inputs by Richa Pinto)
