Key Update

On Tuesday, over 350 people in North West Delhi reported food poisoning symptoms after consuming buckwheat flour during Navratri fasting. Authorities rushed most of the affected to the Delhi government-run BJRM Hospital, where doctors confirmed that all patients remained in stable condition.

Health Officials Confirm Stable Condition of Patients

The chief medical officer at BJRM Hospital stated that around 40 patients remain admitted and are receiving treatment, but all are stable. Those affected came from neighbourhoods including Jahangirpuri, Mahendra Park, Samaypur, Bhalswa Dairy, Lal Bagh, and Swaroop Nagar. Medical staff reported no serious cases, with most patients treated in the emergency ward being discharged without requiring hospitalisation.

Police Respond Promptly to Mass Illness Reports

Police first received calls around 6:10 AM from Jahangirpuri, reporting multiple residents falling ill after consuming food made with kuttu ka atta (buckwheat flour). Responding swiftly, police teams coordinated with hospital officials, who confirmed that between 150 and 200 people had visited the emergency ward by morning. To ease community anxiety, police deployed patrol units and public address systems in the affected neighbourhoods. They also worked closely with the Food Department and local health officials to raise awareness among shopkeepers, vendors, and residents about food safety precautions during the ongoing Navratri fast.

Investigation Launched Into Flour Contamination

Buckwheat flour is a popular fasting staple during Navratri and is in high demand, making it vulnerable to contamination or adulteration. Authorities have not yet determined whether spoilage or adulteration caused the outbreak. The Delhi Food Department has launched a thorough investigation, collecting samples from markets to trace the source and quality of the flour to prevent further incidents.

Source: The New Indian Express