Saharsa/Patna: Hundreds of schoolchildren in Saharsa district were admitted in hospital after a baby snake was allegedly found in a midday meal served at a government school, triggering panic among parents and protests by local residents.
The incident took place at the Government Middle School in Baluaha village under the Mahishi block area. According to local officials and residents, several students complained of sickness shortly after consuming the meal.
Authorities said approximately 300 children were admitted to the Mahishi community health centre, where doctors began emergency treatment. Some students were later referred to Saharsa Sadar hospital for further medical care.
News of the incident prompted angry scenes outside the school, with parents and villagers gathering to protest over the quality of food served under the government-run midday meal scheme. Demonstrators accused school authorities of negligence and demanded stricter monitoring of meal preparation.
The midday meal programme, one of India’s largest school nutrition schemes, has frequently faced criticism over food safety standards in several states.
The civil surgeon of Saharsa said the situation was under control and that all affected children were stable.
“All the children are fine. After primary treatment, they are being referred to Saharsa Sadar hospital for better care. Their condition worsened due to suspected food poisoning. Around 300 children were affected, but the situation is currently under control,” the official said.
Local authorities have begun an inquiry into the incident, while health officials are expected to examine food samples to determine the exact cause of contamination.
The episode has renewed concerns over hygiene and supervision in school meal programmes across Bihar, where similar incidents have periodically been reported in recent years.
