Snake Found In Bihar School Meal, Children Fall Ill After Eating Mid-Day Lunch

A major health scare unfolded in Bihar's Saharsa district on Thursday after a baby snake was allegedly found in the mid-day meal served to students at a government school. Hundreds of children complained of severe stomach pain soon after eating the food and were rushed to hospitals for treatment.

The incident took place at Middle School Baluaha in the Mahishi block, where the mid-day meal was supplied by an NGO.

Children Started Falling Sick After Meal Was Served

According to reports, the lunch was being distributed to students like any regular school day when a baby snake was spotted in the food while one of the children was being served. Panic spread across the school soon after the discovery.

Within minutes, several students began complaining of stomach pain and uneasiness. As more children reported similar symptoms, the situation turned chaotic inside the school premises.

Teachers and school authorities immediately informed the police and health officials after dozens of children started writhing in pain.

Police Vehicles And Ambulances Used To Shift Students

Police personnel reached the school shortly after receiving information about the incident. Some of the affected students were shifted to a nearby health centre in police vehicles before ambulances arrived at the spot.

Hospital authorities later sent multiple ambulances to transport the remaining children for medical treatment. Reports said many students remained in critical condition for a considerable period before their health stabilised.

Several children were later referred to the Sadar Hospital in Saharsa, where they are currently undergoing treatment under medical supervision.

Probe Ordered Into Mid-Day Meal Supply

Following the incident, district authorities launched an investigation into the preparation and supply of the mid-day meals. The District Magistrate has reportedly sent an inquiry team to the NGO cluster responsible for cooking meals for several schools in the area.

Officials are expected to examine how the contamination took place and whether safety standards were ignored during food preparation and distribution.

Concerns Raised Over Safety Of School Meals

The incident has once again raised serious concerns over hygiene and quality checks in Bihar's mid-day meal scheme. Parents gathered outside hospitals and the school premises demanding strict action against those responsible.

Authorities are yet to confirm the exact number of children affected, while the investigation into the incident is underway.