A disturbing incident of suspected food poisoning has come to light at Puranmal Lahoti Government Polytechnic Women's Hostel in Latur, Maharashtra. Approximately 50 female students were rushed to the hospital after complaining of nausea, vomiting, and other symptoms following dinner on Saturday.
The students had consumed rice, chapatis, okra curry, and lentil soup, and by 8:30 pm, many felt nauseous and some started vomiting.
Initial Allegations and Investigation:
Preliminary reports suggested that lizards were found in the meal served to the students. However, hostel authorities and police have not confirmed this. Shivajinagar police have collected food samples and other items for further investigation. Fortunately, none of the students are in critical condition.
Nearly 50 students were admitted to the hospital for treatment by midnight. Treatment started immediately, and they were administered saline. Twenty of them were discharged by 3 am and the rest by Sunday eveningDr Uday Mohite, Dean, Government Medical College and Hospital
Principal Nitnawre clarified that photographs circulating on social media, allegedly showing lizards and insects in meals, are false. The hostel has 324 female students, and the contract for the college mess has been given to Manisha Dobgave, who is being questioned by police. Latur Lok Sabha MP Shivaji Kalge visited the hospital late Saturday night, inquiring about the well-being of the affected students. He contacted Latur District Magistrate Varsha Thakur-Ghuge, demanding action against those responsible. The MP's intervention ensured timely medical attention and relief for the students. Additionally, members of the RSS-affiliated Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) staging a sit-in protest outside the polytechnic on Sunday morning.
The reports related to the food samples will be available by Monday or TuesdayKeshav Netke, Resident Deputy Collector
The protestors demanded:
Appropriate treatment for the affected students
Strict action against those responsible
Principal VD Nitnawre's resignation
Termination of the food provider's contract
The incident highlights concerns about food safety and quality control in large, common kitchens. Authorities must ensure rigorous checks to prevent similar incidents. The investigation is ongoing, and officials will take necessary actions based on the findings. This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining high food safety standards, especially in institutions catering to large numbers of students.
(Input from various sources)
(Rehash/Neha Kamble/MSM)