Khammam: 30 students fall ill after eating breakfast at tribal school

Thirty students at a tribal ashram school in Kallur, Khammam, fell ill due to suspected food poisoning after breakfast. Ten were hospitalised in serious condition. Officials launched a probe, and Telangana Girijana Sangham demanded a survey of food safety in hostels

Khammam: As many as 30 students of the Girls Tribal Ashram School at Kallur in Khammam district fell seriously ill on Monday, allegedly due to food poisoning after consuming breakfast served at the school.

The affected students, who complained of vomiting, nausea, abdominal bloating and severe pain, were first taken to the local Community Health Centre (CHC). Ten students in serious condition were later shifted to the Government General Hospital in Khammam for further treatment.

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The students were served khichdi for breakfast. The ashram school accommodates students from Classes 3 to 10.

Local Primary Health Centre medical officer Dr Navya Kant and CHC’s Dr Ramesh provided emergency care to the children. Kallur sub-Collector Ajay Yadav visited the hospital, interacted with the students, and instructed the doctors to ensure they received proper treatment.

Upon learning of the incident, Sathupalli MLA Matta Ragamayee visited the hospital and later the ashram school. She inspected the kitchen, food, and vegetables, and urged senior officials to take strict action against those responsible.

Telangana Girijana Sangham district general secretary Bhukya Veerabhadram said frequent food poisoning incidents at tribal ashram schools raise serious concerns about student safety. He termed the incident a case of gross negligence and demanded a high-level government inquiry.

He also urged the State government to conduct a comprehensive survey on food safety and hostel facilities across all ashram schools.

Meanwhile, officials collected food samples for laboratory testing. As many students were hesitant to eat lunch after the incident, the MDO, MRO, and doctors dined with them to restore confidence.