SHILLONG: A 13-year-old boy from Meghalaya has died, and 29 other students are hospitalized in critical condition after a suspected food poisoning incident at an alleged unauthorized hostel in T Kagepura village, Mandya district, Karnataka.
The students experienced severe vomiting, diarrhea, and dehydration.
The deceased has been identified as Sunday Kerlang, a Class VI student from Lyndem village, Pynursla Civil Subdivision in Meghalaya.
According to reports, the incident occurred at a residential facility operated by Gokul Educational Institution, which has been functioning without a valid hostel license since 1989.
The hostel, housing 30 students primarily from Meghalaya and Nepal, was located on the first floor of the school building, reportedly lacking adequate infrastructure, including proper sanitation.
Reports indicate the students were served leftover vegetable pulao and chutney from a Holi celebration feast held in Malavalli on Friday.
The students fell ill on Saturday, leading to their hospitalization. Kerlang died on Sunday at Mandya Institute of Medical Sciences. Seven students remain in critical condition, with one on a ventilator.
Mandya police have registered a case under Sections 286 and 106 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, relating to negligent conduct with poisonous substances and causing grievous hurt by act endangering life or personal safety of others.
Three school staffers have been arrested: the cook who prepared the food, the hostel warden responsible for distributing the leftovers, and the school owner.
Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah expressed condolences and pledged compensation to the deceased’s family.
Meghalaya’s Director General of Police (DGP), Idashisha Nongrang, confirmed the incident, stating that the Mandya Superintendent of Police is providing assistance. The deceased’s body has been released and is being transported to Meghalaya.
