Over 150 Bihar School Children Fall Ill After Mid-Day Meal in Saharsa

More than 150 children allegedly fell ill after consuming a mid-day meal at a government middle school in Bihar’s Saharsa district, prompting authorities to launch an investigation into the incident.

The incident occurred at a school in Baluaha village , where several students complained of stomach ache, vomiting, and mild fever shortly after having lunch on Thursday. According to officials, around 200 students had consumed the meal before the problem came to light.

Saharsa District Magistrate Deepesh Kumar said that affected students were first taken to a nearby primary health centre and later shifted to larger medical facilities for treatment. At present, 115 children are undergoing treatment at Sadar Hospital , while around 50 students have been admitted to Mahishi Public Health Centre .

“Doctors have informed us that the condition of the children has improved. They are under observation, and there is no need to panic,” Kumar told reporters.

Family members of some students alleged that a snake was found inside the container storing cooked pulses served during the meal. They claimed the reptile was discovered only after many children had already eaten the food.

Following the allegations, the district administration collected food samples from the school premises for laboratory examination. Officials said the exact cause of the illness would be confirmed only after the test reports are received.

Authorities have also begun monitoring the health of all affected students while ensuring medical assistance at the hospitals.