Suspected food poisoning at Tilak ceremony in Bihar’s Gaya, over 40 fall ill

Patna, May 9 (IANS) A major health scare was reported from the Gurua block of Gaya district on Friday night after more than 40 people fell ill following a Tilak ceremony in Dhana Bigha village, officials said on Saturday.

According to an official, a large number of villagers had gathered for the ceremony. Shortly after eating, many attendees began experiencing symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and restlessness.

Initially dismissed as minor discomfort, the situation quickly escalated as dozens of people fell sick one after another, creating panic across the village. Most of the affected individuals were admitted to the Community Health Centre Gurua, while others were taken to nearby private clinics.

Upon receiving information, the Health Department responded swiftly, and ambulances were dispatched immediately. Patients were transported for urgent care, and emergency treatment was initiated without delay.

Dr. Harendra Kumar stated that medical teams are actively monitoring all patients. Another doctor, Nitish Kumar, confirmed that the symptoms observed in patients are of food poisoning.

Some of the identified patients include Sunita Devi (45), Premni Devi (44), Roshan Kumar (17), Anand Kumar (22), Ramesh Ram (45), Rahul Raj (28), Akash Kumar (30), Kundan Kumar (25), and Ankush Kumar (10). All are residents of Dhana Bigha village.

Doctors have assured that all patients are currently stable, no critical cases have been reported, and timely medical intervention has helped control the situation.

Villagers have alleged that the food served at the ceremony was of poor quality, possibly spoiled or contaminated.

The Health Department has begun an investigation to identify the exact cause of illness. It will test food samples and fix responsibility for negligence.

The incident has triggered anxiety and anger among locals, who are demanding strict action against those responsible. Authorities are continuing to monitor the situation closely to prevent any further escalation and to ensure such incidents do not recur.

–IANS

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