Over 70 Children Fall Ill After Consuming Mid-Day Meal in Bihar; Lizard Found in Food, Claim Locals

Patna: More than 70 school children reportedly fell ill after consuming a mid-day meal at a government school in Bihar on Thursday, officials said. The incident triggered panic among parents and villagers, with locals alleging that a lizard had fallen into the cooked food.

According to preliminary reports, the children began complaining of nausea, vomiting and stomach pain shortly after eating the meal served under the Centre’s mid-day meal scheme. Teachers immediately alerted local health authorities as the number of affected students increased.

Rushed to Hospital

The children were taken to a nearby primary health centre and district hospital for treatment. Doctors said most of them were stable and responding well to medical care. A few students were kept under observation as a precaution.

Hospital authorities confirmed that symptoms were consistent with food contamination, though the exact cause will be determined after laboratory tests.

Allegation of Contamination

Local residents claimed that a dead lizard was found in the food after it had been served. The allegation has sparked anger among parents, who demanded strict action against those responsible for preparing and distributing the meal.

School authorities have not officially confirmed the presence of a lizard but stated that an inquiry has been initiated to ascertain the facts.

Probe Ordered

District officials visited the school and ordered a detailed investigation. Food samples have been collected and sent for testing. The cook and staff involved in meal preparation are being questioned.

Authorities said appropriate action will be taken if negligence is established. Meanwhile, the mid-day meal service at the school has been temporarily suspended.

The incident has once again raised concerns about food safety standards and monitoring mechanisms in government-run meal schemes aimed at improving nutrition among schoolchildren.