As many as 26 students of a government school in north Delhi were hospitalised after having their midday meal, prompting the Arvind Kejriwal government to order an inspection of all midday meal kitchens in the city.
Police registered an FIR after a formal complaint from the school authorities.
A police officer said that the 26 students of Classes 6 to 8 fell sick after the meal in Narela area around 10.30 a.m. They were rushed to the Satyawadi Raja Harish Chandra Hospital.
"The complained of abdominal pain, headache, dizziness and vomiting. We have initiated an inquiry to find out if it was due to negligence of the school or food caterer."
As the children's condition improved after a few hours, they were discharged, except a girl Payal who found a lizard in her meal, he added.
Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia, who holds the education portfolio, ordered an inspection of all midday meal kitchens and warned of strict action, including termination of contract and suspension of officials, in case of negligence.
"It is a serious matter. Officials have been told to inspect all kitchens over the next week and take strict action if any irregularity is found. All stakeholders will have to get their act together. Otherwise, they may face suspension," he said.
Sisodia said that the Education Department officials will hold a meeting with those responsible for the midday meal scheme on Thursday.
Social Welfare Minister Rajendra Pal Gautam visited the students at the hospital and said all of them were doing fine. "They had complained of pain and difficulty in breathing," he said.
"We will not tolerate any negligence. We will take strict action against the supplier. It is unfortunate that even after repeated warnings, such incidents are recurring," he said.
Last week, two girls were hospitalised after a midday meal in their school run by the Municipal Corporation of Delhi. The vendor was booked on a complaint by the Principal.
--IANS
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