Panic gripped a government middle school in Bihar’s Madhepura district after over 70 children fell ill shortly after consuming their mid-day meal on Saturday. Located in Karu Tola under Sahugarh block, the Ummat Middle School became a scene of chaos as students began complaining of severe stomach pain, vomiting, dizziness, restlessness, and anxiety.
Within minutes of eating, one child after another started showing symptoms, sending teachers and local residents into a frenzy. Parents rushed to the school upon hearing the news, and the affected children were quickly transported to Madhepura Sadar Hospital using ambulances and private vehicles. Doctors at the hospital confirmed that most kids are now stable, though one girl remains in critical condition under close observation.
Preliminary investigations point to a lizard found in the food, supplied through an NGO under the mid-day meal scheme. Food samples have been sent for lab testing, but officials have yet to confirm the exact cause. District Education Officer Sanjay Kumar visited the hospital to assess the situation and assured a thorough probe.
‘We have launched a detailed investigation. If negligence or irregularities are found at any level, strict action will be taken against the responsible NGO and individuals,’ the DEO stated firmly. Furious parents staged protests outside the hospital, demanding accountability and a high-level inquiry into the incident.
This shocking event has reignited concerns over the quality control and hygiene standards in India’s mid-day meal program, which aims to provide nutritious food to millions of schoolchildren. The district administration has promised corrective measures to prevent future mishaps, but trust among parents hangs by a thread. Authorities must act swiftly to restore confidence and ensure child safety in schools.