The National Human Rights Commission is examining an alarming incident in Bihar, where more than 100 children became ill after consuming a school meal contaminated with a dead snake. This incident underscores ongoing concerns regarding food safety and hygiene in India's extensive school meal programs.
Alarm in India as Children Hospitalized After School Meal Contamination
Alarm in India as Children Hospitalized After School Meal Contamination
Over 100 children in India reported illness after a snake was found in their school lunch, prompting a human rights investigation.
In a shocking incident in Bihar, India, over 100 children have reported getting sick after consuming a contaminated school meal that contained a dead snake. The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has launched an investigation into this disturbing occurrence, which highlights serious concerns regarding the safety of food served to students in educational institutions.
According to NHRC statements, the issue arose in the city of Mokama, where it was revealed that the cook served the meal without fully removing the snake. Approximately 500 children were believed to have been served this particular lunch, leading to widespread sickness among the students. Local residents took to the streets in protest upon hearing news of the children's illnesses.
The NHRC described the situation as a potential violation of the human rights of the students involved and has requested a comprehensive report from state officials within two weeks. This report will focus on the health status of the affected children and will also address food safety protocols in educational institutions.
India's Mid-Day Meal scheme, initiated in 1925 to provide nutritious meals to children from low-income families, has faced criticism over food hygiene in the past. This scheme, recognized as one of the largest in the world, aims to combat child hunger and enhance attendance in schools. However, it has been marred by incidents of contaminated food, including a tragic event in 2013 when 23 children died from consuming tainted meals in Bihar.
The NHRC's ongoing investigation signals a crucial move towards ensuring accountability and safety measures in India's school meal program, as parents and communities demand transparency and substantive changes to prevent future occurrences.
