On December 8, 2024, a shocking food poisoning episode was reported at Mata Rukhmani residential school in Dhanora village, Bijapur, Chhattisgarh. One eight-year-old girl, Shivani Telam, unfortunately died, and 34 other children were hospitalized. The children complained of vomiting and dysentery after consuming meals at the school.
Chronology of Events
Sunday Evening (December 8):
Students started complaining of nausea, vomiting, and restlessness after dinner, said to have included paneer.
Monday Morning (December 9):
The ill children were first taken to a local hospital for treatment.
As the condition became worse, 35 students were shifted to Bijapur District Hospital.
Late on Monday Night:
Two students who were critically ill were referred to Jagdalpur for further treatment.
Third-grader Shivani Telam died during transfer.
Preliminary Findings
Suspected Food Contamination:
Meals provided consisted of lunch kheer and puri and paneer at dinner. According to officers, food must have gotten contaminated probably paneer by which they all were infected.
Acute Symptoms:
Vomiting, Dysentery, and Sever dehydration was reported as one of the main symptoms by most of the people.
Investigation Still On
Inquiry Initiated:
Collectors of Bijapur, Sambit Mishra have issued the inquiry to figure out the particular reason of contamination and faults in preparation of food and hygiene practice
Health officials have collected samples from the school kitchen for laboratory testing. Preliminary findings suggest food poisoning, but results are awaited for confirmation.
Reactions and Accountability
Family’s Allegations:
The deceased child’s family has accused the school superintendent of negligence and demanded stringent action against those responsible for the tragedy.
Administrative Response:
The district administration has pledged to improve monitoring of residential schools to ensure food safety and hygiene.
Current Status
The 34 other children involved are said to be stable and are undergoing treatment at Bijapur District Hospital. Authorities have ensured that all possible medical care is being given to them.
Preventive Measures
Food quality and hygiene standards are being regularly inspected in residential schools across Bijapur.
Food handlers and kitchen staff are being trained to adhere to strict safety measures to avoid such incidents.
This tragic incident emphasizes the importance of food safety in institutions providing services to children. It has triggered calls for greater accountability and systemic reforms in residential schools throughout the state. Updates are expected as the investigation progresses.
