Report

A 13-year-old student, Kerlang from Meghalaya, tragically died on Sunday from suspected food poisoning in Malavalli, Mandya district, Karnataka. Several others fell ill, prompting health and law enforcement agencies to launch an investigation.

The Feast and Its Aftermath

The business community in Malavalli, primarily consisting of individuals from Rajasthan, hosted a feast following the Holi celebrations on Friday. They prepared vegetarian dishes at a local hotel and shared them with students from a nearby private educational institution’s hostel. A total of 24 students from Northeast India participated in the meal.

Symptoms of Food Poisoning

By Saturday, the students began experiencing food poisoning symptoms such as vomiting and diarrhoea. Health department officials visited the school, administered treatment, and advised the authorities to contact them in case of any emergencies. No further distress calls came in; however, by Sunday, Kerlang collapsed and died before doctors could reach him. In addition to the students, around 30 to 40 other participants of the feast developed food poisoning symptoms and were admitted to private hospitals in Mandya, Mysuru, and other areas for treatment.

Investigation and Medical Response

Following the death of Kerlang, authorities transferred the remaining affected students to hospitals in Mandya and Malavalli for medical care. District Health Officer Mohan stated that collecting a food sample would be difficult as the “rice baat” had been prepared on Friday. However, officials would collect samples of the ingredients for testing to determine the source of contamination.

Official Visits and Actions

On Sunday, Mandya district’s Minister N. Cheluvarayaswamy visited the Mandya Institute of Medical Science and Hospital to check on the condition of the affected children.

Deputy Commissioner Kumara confirmed that the families of the deceased and the other affected students had been notified. He also stated that the private school, which lacked authorization to operate a hostel, would face action for negligence. The Malavalli police have opened an investigation and filed a case.

Source: The Hindu