More than 30 students at a school in Chittapur taluk, Karnataka, were hospitalized on Thursday after consuming contaminated food, according to local health officials. The incident occurred at a government-run residential school for minority communities.
Students show symptoms after midday meal
The students began complaining of nausea, vomiting, and stomach pain shortly after eating the midday meal. School authorities immediately alerted the local health center and the minority welfare department. A team of doctors and nurses was dispatched to the school to provide emergency care.
Officials from the minority department, upon receiving the news, rushed to the school and made arrangements for the treatment of the affected students. They were provided with oral rehydration salts and intravenous fluids. Those with severe symptoms were shifted to the taluk hospital for further observation.
Health department investigates cause
Health department officials collected samples of the food served to the students for laboratory analysis. Preliminary investigations suggest that the food may have been contaminated due to improper storage or preparation. The school kitchen has been temporarily sealed pending the investigation results.
District Health Officer Dr. Ramesh said, "We are treating the students and monitoring their condition. Most are stable and responding well to treatment. We have sent food samples to the lab to determine the exact cause of contamination."
Minority department takes action
The minority welfare department has assured strict action against those responsible for the lapse. A senior official stated that the department will review food safety protocols at all residential schools under its jurisdiction. The school warden and cook have been suspended pending an inquiry.
Parents of the affected students have expressed concern over the incident. Many have demanded better oversight of food quality in government schools. Local MLA Basavaraj Patil visited the hospital and assured the families of full support.
Previous incidents in the region
This is not the first case of food poisoning in Chittapur taluk. In 2024, over 50 students from a different school fell ill after consuming contaminated rice. Health officials have repeatedly emphasized the need for strict hygiene standards in school kitchens.
The state government has directed all district education officers to conduct surprise inspections of school kitchens and canteens. A helpline has been set up for reporting any food safety concerns.
