The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has taken suo motu cognizance of a media report stating that approximately 60 students fell ill after consuming a mid-day meal at a government-run school in Nalanda district. The commission has issued a notice to the Nalanda district magistrate, demanding a comprehensive report within two weeks, an official confirmed on Wednesday.
Incident Details
According to the media report published on May 21, 2026, about 60 students experienced symptoms such as vomiting, stomach ache, nausea, and loose motions after eating the mid-day meal. They were subsequently admitted to nearby hospitals for treatment. The report highlighted that the meal was served without being tasted by the teachers, as per required protocol. After several students complained of illness, a teacher also consumed the food, fell sick, and had to be hospitalized.
NHRC's Response
The commission observed that the contents of the report, if true, raise a serious issue of violation of the students' human rights. Accordingly, a notice has been issued to the district magistrate, Nalanda, seeking a detailed report within two weeks, an NHRC spokesperson said.
The NHRC's intervention underscores the importance of ensuring the safety and well-being of children in schools. The commission is expected to take further action based on the findings of the report.
