Midday Meal Scare: Over 20 children fall ill after midday meal in Karnataka

A worrying incident occurred on Tuesday at Jamalapur Government Higher Primary School in Aurad taluk, Bidar district, where over 20 children fell ill after consuming their midday meal and required hospitalisation.

The students, who had eaten meals including sambar and rice , began showing symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhoea, stomach ache, and nausea shortly afterward. Alarmed by the sudden onset of illness, teachers immediately took all 58 students to Aurad Taluk Hospital as a precautionary measure.

Of the children admitted, most are now reported to be stable and out of danger , while five to six remain under observation for further monitoring.

Bidar Deputy Commissioner Shilpa Sharma confirmed that food samples have been collected for laboratory testing to determine the cause of the illness. “Further action will be initiated based on the report. Disciplinary measures will be taken against those found responsible,” she said.

The Karnataka State Commission for Protection of Child Rights (KSCPCR) is closely monitoring the situation and awaiting the investigation’s findings before recommending any action.

The incident has raised concern among parents and the local community regarding the hygiene and safety of midday meals provided in government schools. Authorities have assured that measures will be reviewed and strengthened to prevent such incidents in the future.