Investigation Launched After Children Fall Ill from Contaminated School Meal in India

The discovery of a dead snake in a school meal served to over 500 children in Bihar raises serious concerns about food safety and human rights violations. The National Human Rights Commission is now investigating the incident amid reports of significant illness among students.

In a troubling incident in Mokama, Bihar, more than 100 children reportedly fell ill after consuming school lunches that contained a dead snake. According to statements from the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), the cook served the meal despite having removed the snake, which has raised alarms over food safety standards in the school's meal program. Authorities confirmed that approximately 500 students were part of the lunchtime meal when the incident occurred.

Following reports of illness among the students, locals protested by blocking a road, highlighting the widespread concern over the incident. The NHRC deemed the affair a significant potential violation of human rights and has demanded a comprehensive report from state officials addressing the health status of the affected children within two weeks.

The school lunch program in question is part of India's Mid-Day Meal Scheme, one of the largest initiatives in the world aimed at providing free nutritious meals to children from economically disadvantaged backgrounds. Despite its purpose of combating hunger and enhancing school participation, the scheme has faced criticism regarding food safety and hygienic practices.

This is not the first time food safety issues have arisen in Bihar; in 2013, contaminated food led to the tragic deaths of 23 students due to high levels of pesticides found in newly served meals. The NHRC's current investigation aims to ensure accountability and prevent a recurrence of such health hazards in the future.