TGHRC Takes Suo-Motu Cognizance of Gadwal Food Poisoning Incident

The Commission observed that, if true, this indicated serious deficiencies in food safety and control. He instructed the Secretary-General to conduct an investigation and submit a comprehensive report by 11 a.m. on 24 November.

According to the report, between 21:00 and 21:30 in the evening, many students complained of dizziness and vomiting, whereupon the hostel staff immediately reported the situation to the authorities and transferred the students to the Government Hospital in Gadwal by ambulances.

Assistance was also taken from Kodandapuram police station Sub-Inspector Murali. Health officials stated that the students showed symptoms of food poisoning such as nausea and vomiting. It was reported that approximately 20 doctors attended to the affected students and two of them had difficulty breathing.

Hostel officials stated that students were served rice, sambar, cauliflower and eggs for dinner. The reported incident, if true, indicates serious deficiencies in food safety, hygiene and supervision at a state aid hostel for minors, thereby raising human rights concerns regarding the rights to life, health and safety of students in State care.

In view of the above, the Commission has taken suo-motu cognizance of the matter and directed the Chief Secretary to initiate an investigation into the reported incident and submit a comprehensive report to the Commission explaining the circumstances leading to the incident by the next date of hearing.

The Chief Secretary must also disclose the causes of food poisoning, apart from the measures taken to ensure food safety and hygiene in all Government Aid Hostels, as well as the current health status of the students and the treatment provided, medical findings and action taken against those found negligent.