Three students from Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidhyalaya (KGBV) in Nagarkurnool district were hospitalized on December 8 after experiencing symptoms of food poisoning, including vomiting and diarrhea. Parents of the students believe the meals served at the school caused the illness, but school officials argue the students consumed outside snacks. Dr. Raghu, superintendent of Nagarkurnool Government Medical College, clarified that one student had gastroenteritis and the other two had flu symptoms, with no signs of food poisoning.
The incident is part of an alarming trend of food-related illnesses in Telangana schools. In 2024 alone, 43 students have died after ingesting contaminated food served in government-run schools. One notable case was the tragic death of a 16-year-old tribal student, C Shailaja, who passed away on November 25 after being hospitalized for food poisoning. She was among 63 victims affected after consuming dinner at the Wankidi tribal welfare school in Kumrambheem Asifabad.
This rise in food poisoning incidents has led to scrutiny by local authorities. In response to these recurring issues, the Telangana High Court has instructed the state government to submit reports from a special task force investigating food safety measures within four weeks. The court has scheduled further hearings in six weeks, stressing the urgency of addressing this public health concern.
This case adds to the growing concern over the quality and safety of meals provided in government schools. With several cases of food poisoning leading to severe health complications, officials are under pressure to ensure better monitoring and improvements in food safety standards. The issue remains a critical matter for parents, students, and education authorities across the state.