One dead, 20 in hospital after having chickpeas

By: Rokibuz Zaman
GUWAHATI: One person died and at least 20 people were hospitalised with “severe complications” after consuming “poisoned” bootma (chickpeas) at Bezara near Baihata Chariali in Kamrup district, about 20 km from Guwahati, on Thursday.
Kailash Karthik N, deputy commissioner, Kamrup district, told TOI, “The incident was reported in the evening, where the people went for a shop opening and had the chickpeas. About 80 people consumed it and at least 20 have been hospitalised with severe complications and the number is increasing.”
He said one person has died in the incident, but it could be confirmed only after the post-mortem report is out.
Karthik added it was too early to comment on what led to the incident and said an inquiry will be initiated to ascertain the causes of the incident.
“Our main focus now is to take care of the people and giving them medical treatment. A thorough investigation will be done,” the district commissioner said.
The chickpeas were consumed by people of different age groups from a grocery shop. Apart from those admitted to Bezara Community Hospital, some are undergoing treatment at home, sources said.