Key Update

A first-year postgraduate student from the gynaecology department at Rajendra Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS), Ranchi, is battling for life after she drank tea from the orthopaedics department canteen late Thursday night. The incident has raised serious concerns about food safety inside Jharkhand’s premier medical institute.

Doctor Collapses After First Sip

Hospital officials said the young doctor, who recently joined her PG course after completing MBBS at RIMS, developed severe health complications immediately after taking the first sip of tea. She complained of a foul smell and strange taste before collapsing. Colleagues rushed her to the central emergency ward, after which doctors shifted her to the critical care ICU. She is on ventilator support, and doctors have said the next 48 hours will be vital for her recovery.

Canteens Sealed, Probe Ordered

On Friday, the RIMS management sealed two campus canteens, including the one where the tea was served, in the presence of Bariatu police. The institute also formed a three-member inquiry committee headed by the medicine department chief, with members from the obstetrics and gynaecology department and a toxicology expert from FMT.

Police Investigation Underway

Bariatu police station is investigating the case and examining all angles, including negligence and possible foul play. Officials are testing food and beverage samples for toxic substances. Police have questioned the canteen operator, Annapurna Services Private Limited, as well as staff members who were on duty during the incident.

History of Hygiene Complaints

Officials revealed that the canteen had already been under the scanner for unhygienic conditions and poor-quality food. Students had raised concerns earlier about dirty surroundings and substandard meals, but corrective measures were never properly enforced.

Source: The Times of  India