In a concerning incident, several students at Bodhjung Girls’ School in Agartala fell ill on Thursday shortly after arriving at school. Suspecting food poisoning, at least 15 of these students were rushed to the GBP Hospital in ambulances. The students are currently undergoing treatment at the hospital.
CM Orders Investigation
Upon receiving the news, Tripura Chief Minister Prof. (Dr.) Manik Saha directed the GB Hospital authority to ensure proper medical care for the affected students. He also ordered an investigation into the matter by the concerned administrative officials.
In a social media post, Dr Saha wrote, “I have been informed about the incident of students falling ill at Bodhjung Girls’ School. The government is taking this matter very seriously.
I have already instructed the GBP Hospital authorities to prioritize the treatment of the affected students and ensure they receive the best possible care.
In addition, I have ordered a thorough investigation into the entire incident by the responsible administrative officials.”
Students Report Abdominal Pain and nausea
Speaking to the media, one of the school teachers said, the students from Maharaja Bir Bikram Welfare Society Hostel started experiencing abdominal pain and vomiting after reaching school this morning. Some of them even fainted. Around 15 students were reported to be unwell. Four ambulances were immediately dispatched to the scene and the students were taken to GBP Hospital for treatment. The cause of their illness is yet to be ascertained, but food poisoning is suspected.
Students Blame Low-Quality Hostel Food
One of the students shared that they had dal-bhat (lentils and rice) for breakfast today and then went to school for their exams. Upon reaching school, they suddenly started experiencing abdominal pain and vomiting. A parent alleged that the food served at the Maharaja Bir Bikram Welfare Society Hostel is of poor quality and that the students are not provided with nutritious meals. This, they believe, is the reason behind the students’ illness today.
Sadar SDM Briefs Media
Addressing the media, SDM Manik Lal Das informed that 15 students from Bodhjung Girls’ School fell ill. All of them reside at the Maharaja Bir Bikram Welfare Society Hostel. The remaining students of the school are being examined by doctors. If any other student shows symptoms, they will also be provided with medical attention.
DM Provides Update
West Tripura District Magistrate Dr. Vishal Kumar informed that 50 students from different classes of Bodhjung Girls’ School reside at the Maharaja Bir Bikram Welfare Society Hostel.
Today, they felt unwell after reaching school. Out of them, 15 students have been taken to GBP Hospital. The remaining 35 students are undergoing examinations. The situation is still under control, he said.
The district magistrate further said that discussions will be held with the hostel authorities and the food will be tested.
Ruling BJP State President Rajib Bhattacharjee rushed to the school and inquired about the situation. Members of the Left Bodies visited the GB Hospital and inquired about the students’ health condition.