A heartbreaking incident in Varanasi has claimed the lives of three young girls, sending shockwaves through their village community. The children reportedly consumed a poisonous fruit or flower while playing, leading to their untimely deaths.
Details of the Tragic Incident
The tragedy unfolded in Kardhana village under the Mirzamurad police station. Three sisters, identified as Harshita (6), Anshika (3), and Nancy (4), fell critically ill after ingesting an unknown substance. According to accounts from other children who were playing with them, the trio consumed some type of flower or fruit.
The families of Harshita and Anshika performed their last rites on Sunday, their grief palpable to the entire community. Meanwhile, Nancy fought for her life at the BHU hospital but succumbed to her injuries on Monday.
Police Investigation and Post-Mortem
Following the third death, authorities initiated a thorough investigation. ADCP of Gomati zone, Vaibhav Bangar, confirmed on Monday that Nancy's body had been sent for a post-mortem examination. He further stated that her viscera was being preserved to conclusively determine the cause of death for all three girls.
The primary suspicion, based on initial information and local flora, points toward kaner (oleander). This common plant, known scientifically as Nerium oleander, contains highly toxic compounds in its flowers, fruits, and seeds. Ingesting even a small amount can be fatal, especially for young children.
Community Impact and Safety Warnings
This devastating event has left Kardhana village in a state of profound sorrow. It serves as a grim reminder of the dangers posed by common poisonous plants in rural and semi-urban areas. Authorities are likely to issue advisories to raise awareness among parents and caregivers about identifying and avoiding such hazardous flora.
While the police await the final post-mortem and viscera analysis reports to confirm the exact toxin, the incident underscores the critical need for community education on plant safety. The loss of three young lives in a single playtime accident is a tragedy that highlights a preventable danger.
