At least 30 students of a government school in Telangana, Narayanpet district fell ill after consuming a mid-day meal allegedly contaminated with worms. The incident happened at Maganoor Zilla Parishad Government High School on Wednesday, which prompted prompt action by the authorities.
Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy has asked for a detailed inquiry into the matter. He sought a detailed report and asked officials to ensure that strict measures are taken to prevent similar occurrences.
Reports indicate that shortly after the students had eaten the meal, they started complaining of stomach aches and vomiting. Teachers and members of school staff quickly reacted, rushing affected children to a nearby hospital for medical attention. Most of the students are reportedly stable, though four remain under observation.
Children were served upma as a mid-day meal contaminated with worms
Parents of the students asserted outraged allegations of negligence in food preparations. “The children were served upma, and later, it was found that the food contained worms,” one parent says. A student also claimed that the contaminated food was then discarded once noticed.
The District Medical and Health Officer confirmed the same stating most students are recovering. Also, they are monitoring all of them closely to ensure their health.
Chief Minister Reddy met the students personally asked about their health and instructed his officials to render them the best possible treatment. He said that the lapses in providing nutritious meals in schools would not be tolerated by the State government.
It is in this context that the Narayanpet district collector has been entrusted with identifying the responsible persons. CM Reddy has sought suspension of anyone involved forthwith and cautioned all district officials to be vigilant not to commit such acts in the future.
The incident has led to a discussion on the quality and safety of mid-day meals supplied to students in all government schools. With worms in meals being a serious health hazard, the state reiterated its commitment to making sure food safety standards are met.
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