A 14-year-old girl named Rakhi died after consuming suspected adulterated turmeric at a wedding ceremony in Kasrawad, Madhya Pradesh. The incident occurred when the family was preparing for a traditional mandap ceremony. Rakhi, along with about 15 others, fell ill after eating food containing turmeric. However, she was the only one whose condition worsened severely.
Medical Journey and Allegations
The following morning, doctors referred her to MY Hospital in Indore, reportedly citing the absence of equipment needed to examine her throat. Tests including X-ray and ECG were conducted. Her father, Gaju Nath, stated that her throat condition continued to worsen and the swelling on her face did not subside. The family then shifted Rakhi to a private hospital in Gumasta Nagar area of Indore. After some treatment there, the hospital staff allegedly told them that the treatment would be very expensive and that since they were poor, they should take her back to MY Hospital. The family was taking her back to MY Hospital when she died on the way.
No Postmortem Conducted
Ironically, Rakhi was the only one among roughly 15 people at the ceremony to fall ill. The day the family was to hold the mandap ceremony became the day of her funeral. The ceremonial torans her family had hung at the entrance still remain. No postmortem examination was conducted before her last rites were performed.
Police and Health Department Response
Kasrawad police station in-charge Rajendra Burman said that no information regarding the matter had been received at the police station. However, Khargone chief medical and health officer, Dr Daulat Singh Chauhan, confirmed that a probe has been ordered. A team led by Kasrawad block medical officer has been directed to inquire into the incident. Health department officials visited the family's residence.
Food Safety Drive Initiated
The incident prompted Khargone collector Bhavya Mittal to direct food safety officials to launch a special inspection drive across the district and collect samples of turmeric and other spices for laboratory testing. Chief food safety officer Khargone HL Awasya said that samples were also collected from shops in and around Kasrawad after the incident came to light.
