Key Development

The Jaintia Students’ Union (JSU) has raised alarms over “hazardous” conditions at Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya (JNV) Shillong in Meghalaya after 59 students fell ill with diarrhoea and vomiting since November 22. The Union has given school authorities a 15-day deadline to address the food safety and hygiene issues. JSU, led by education secretary Khynroo Bocheru Mi Pohsnem, inspected after receiving multiple complaints from parents and local leaders about a suspected food poisoning outbreak at the school. During the visit, the head boy reported that 39 students were on sick leave, with over 20 falling ill just that morning.

Medical Officials Link Illness to Poor Food and Hygiene

Pohsnem said the Medical Officer at PHC Shillong confirmed that the spike in diarrhoea cases likely stems from food poisoning. The officer also highlighted recurring scabies cases among students, indicating severe lapses in hygiene protocols.

The Union rejected the principal’s proposal to relocate students within 15 days, calling it unsafe. Pohsnem noted that Phase A of the new campus, costing around ₹50 crores, is 95% complete but lacks essential electrical and plumbing work. Phase B, costing over ₹20 crores, is only 40% finished. Moving students into an active construction site would expose them to serious safety hazards.

Food Safety Officer Confirms Serious Violations

JSU immediately contacted the Assistant Commissioner of Food Safety, Shillong, who instructed the Food Safety Officer (FSO) to conduct an on-site investigation. The FSO’s preliminary report found the campus facilities “inadequate and unhygienic,” citing:

• A kitchen mess in deplorable condition
• Staff handling food without masks or hairnets
• Toilets are dangerously close to the dining hall, risking cross-contamination
• Rust-colored, hard-drinking water with only two RO machines for over 200 students

Union Demands Immediate Action

The Union has urged authorities to urgently rectify food safety, hygiene, and water quality issues on campus. Pohsnem warned, “Failure to comply will compel the Union to take further steps to protect the students.

Source: Hub News