Students in Nalanda complained of dizziness and vomiting after eating the meal; all affected children are now said to be out of danger
At least 36 girl students fell ill after detergent powder was allegedly used instead of salt in a mid-day meal at a government school in Bihar’s Nalanda district, officials said. The students were taken to Biharsharif Sadar Hospital for treatment and are reported to be stable.
The incident occurred on Tuesday at Middle School in Parasi, under the Noorsarai police station area. The meal, consisting of soybean rice, was supplied by an NGO according to the prescribed menu.
According to the school principal, Shailendra Kumar Singh, some students had already eaten when others complained that the food had no salt. The containers of salt and detergent powder were reportedly kept in the same area of the kitchen. The cook allegedly mistook the detergent for salt and added it to the food.
Soon after eating, several students complained of dizziness and began vomiting. They were initially given first aid at the school before being shifted to Sadar Hospital when their condition did not improve.
Nalanda Civil Surgeon Dr Jay Prakash Singh visited the hospital and reviewed the students’ condition. He said the children were out of danger.
Bihar Rural Development Minister Shravan Kumar also visited the hospital and met the affected students and doctors. He said a detailed inquiry would be conducted to determine how the lapse occurred during preparation and serving of the school meal.
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