A grave case of negligence surfaced today at a government primary school in Kaithal, where the safety of students was compromised by a contaminated meal. The incident has once again put the spotlight on the hygiene standards of the state’s Mid-Day Meal program.
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The Discovery: During the lunch hour, as students were being served dal and rice, one student reportedly pointed out a small, dark object in their bowl. Upon closer inspection by teachers, it was identified as a dead lizard.
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Immediate Health Crisis: By the time the contamination was noticed, several students had already finished their portions. Within 30 minutes, 15 children began showing symptoms of food poisoning, including dizziness and bouts of vomiting.
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Medical Response: The school headmaster immediately called for an ambulance, and the children were shifted to the Civil Hospital, Kaithal. Doctors confirmed that the students were suffering from mild toxicity and fear-induced anxiety. “All children are currently stable and under observation. We have administered necessary fluids and anti-emetics,” a senior medical officer stated.
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Administrative Action: Education department officials and the Block Education Officer (BEO) visited the school to record statements. A show-cause notice has been issued to the mid-day meal in-charge and the cooks. Samples of the cooked food and the raw pulses have been seized by the Food Safety Department for laboratory testing.
