A seven-year-old child has died, and 18 others have been hospitalised after allegedly consuming contaminated street food in Jharkhand’s Giridih district,
prompting a police investigation into the incident. The case was reported from Leda Bajto village under the Mufassil police station area, where a local golgappa and chaat vendor had set up a cart on Saturday evening. According to police, a large number of villagers, including women and children, consumed the food items. Soon after, several people began experiencing symptoms of illness late Saturday night. By Sunday morning, more than 20 individuals were rushed to Sadar Hospital for treatment. Sadar sub-divisional police officer Jeetwahan Oraon confirmed the casualty, saying, "A seven-year-old child died, and 18 others are undergoing treatment at Sadar hospital after they suffered food poisoning."
Medical officials have indicated that food poisoning is the likely cause behind the sudden illnesses. The civil surgeon confirmed that patients admitted to the hospital showed symptoms consistent with contamination.
Police said the condition of the remaining patients is currently stable.
An investigation has been launched to determine the exact cause of the suspected poisoning. Authorities are also searching for the cart vendor involved, who is currently untraceable.
(With Inputs from PTI)
