Approximately 40 students at a government school in Tiruvallur district, Tamil Nadu, were reportedly hospitalized on Thursday after consuming a breakfast meal in which a dead lizard was allegedly discovered. The incident occurred at the Kottaiyur Panchayat Union Middle School near Mappedu.
The contaminated breakfast, consisting of rava kichadi and sambhar, was served under the state government's free breakfast program. After some students had already eaten, a dead lizard was reportedly found in the food, prompting school authorities to immediately halt further distribution.
Of the roughly 50 students enrolled from Classes 1 to 8, around 40 had consumed the meal and subsequently reported symptoms including vomiting, dizziness, and stomach-related issues. The affected children were swiftly transported to Tiruvallur Government Medical College Hospital for treatment and observation.
While most students were discharged after receiving medical care, one Class 5 student reportedly remained under treatment for symptoms like diarrhea, though officials confirmed all students were in stable condition. The incident caused significant concern among parents and local residents, with many rushing to the hospital.
Tiruvallur District Collector S Kavitha visited the hospital to interact with the affected students and assess the situation. An official inquiry has been launched into the matter.
Disciplinary Action and Kitchen Cleaning Ordered
Following preliminary reports, disciplinary action was ordered against two cooks, who were relieved from duty. The school headmaster, a teacher, and the block development officer also face disciplinary measures. Initial findings suggest the school's kitchen, located in a shed, may have allowed a lizard to fall into the food.
Authorities have instructed the school to undertake a thorough cleaning of the kitchen, including pest removal and repainting the premises. Additionally, teachers have been mandated to taste the food before it is served to students to prevent future occurrences.