As many as 24 students from the Government Higher Primary School in Markandeya Nagar, Belagavi, fell ill on July 23 after consuming the mid-day meal provided at the school.
Several students reported symptoms like vomiting and diarrhoea and were promptly taken to nearby private hospitals. A few who complained of severe discomfort were shifted to the district hospital for further care.
Teachers noted that the students began experiencing uneasiness shortly after the meal. Following multiple complaints of stomach aches, ambulances were called in to transport them for medical attention.
Deputy Director of Public Instruction (DDPI) Leelavathi Hiremath and District Health and Family Welfare Officer Dr. Ishwar Gadadi visited the hospital to monitor the situation. Ms. Hiremath confirmed that all affected children were safe and out of danger.
Initial findings point to the possibility of a lizard having fallen into the food during preparation. The meal was prepared by a Stree Shakti self-help group.
Laxmanrao Yakkundi, Education Officer of PM Poshan Shakti Nirman Yojna, stated that a detailed investigation will be conducted, and strict action will be taken against those responsible.
