Report

On Wednesday, 45 undertrials from Mangaluru jail were hospitalized after they showed symptoms of suspected food poisoning. The inmates began experiencing severe stomach pain, vomiting, and other discomforts shortly after eating lunch. Some inmates fainted and doctors transferred them to Wenlock Hospital for treatment.

Cause of Illness Under Investigation

The affected inmates consumed a meal of beaten rice, sambar, and rice. District Health and Family Welfare Officer Dr H R Thimmaiah confirmed that all the inmates are recovering, with one in serious condition still under ICU care. Authorities collected food and water samples from the jail kitchen and sent them for laboratory testing to identify the cause of the suspected contamination.

Authorities Respond to the Incident

Mangaluru Commissioner of Police Anupam Agarwal visited the hospital to monitor the situation and announced an investigation. The Taluk Health Officer led the district health department in inspecting the Mangaluru jail kitchen and conducting a detailed inquiry. Preliminary reports suggest that the authorities prepared the contaminated food on the same day.

Jail Overcrowding Contributes to the Situation

The Mangaluru jailhouses 349 undertrials, with the affected inmates coming from various wards. The incident has raised concerns about overcrowding and the need for stricter food safety measures. Authorities are investigating the matter while ensuring the inmates’ conditions remain stable.

Source: India Today